Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, notorious for human rights violations, strolled out of Barbadillo prison in Lima at the age of 85. This walk of freedom came after a recent court ruling, which ended his 14-year imprisonment that started in 2009. Driving away in a gray van, Fujimori left behind the prison walls, surrounded by jubilant supporters, including his children, Keiko and Kenji.
The elder Fujimori's release was a firm supporter's dream, coming to fruition after years of advocacy by his kids. The excitement was palpable outside the prison, with one supporter proclaiming, "Our hearts are filled with joy!"
The Peruvian Constitutional Court recently restored a pardon initially granted to Fujimori by then-President Pablo Kuczynski in 2017. This pardon was revoked in 2018 due to public uproar, but the court reinstated it once again, causing quite a stir.
Fujimori, a powerful force during his presidency from 1990 to 2000, was handed a 25-year sentence for human rights abuses in 2007. His torment continued through death squad ordeals in the early 90s against the Shining Path guerrilla group.
Fujimori's health issues are frequent, with breathing problems, neurological problems, and high blood pressure frequently leading to hospital transfers from prison.
Delving Deeper:
The historic early release of condemned ex-President Fujimori was a complex dance of political decisions, legal appeals, and court rulings. Here are the essential details:
- Medical Pardon: Fujimori's medical pardon was issued in 2017 by President Kuczynski to permit hospital care, provoking criticism from lawmakers and human rights advocates.
- Political Context: Fujimori's son Kenji's abstention from impeachment proceedings against Kuczynski was perceived as a reciprocal move, affecting the pardon decision.
- Legal Challenges: Despite the pardon, Fujimori's trial for the 1992 farmers' killing continued in 2018, following a court order. The Supreme Court, however, overturned the pardon in October 2018, with Fujimori returning to prison.
- Reinstatement of Pardon: In 2022, the Peruvian Constitutional Court reinstated Fujimori's pardon, sparking controversy due to human rights concerns. The IACHR issued a ruling against his release. However, the Constitutional Court extended the pardon again in 2023.
- Release: Court pressure led to Fujimori's release in December 2023, despite the ongoing legal challenges.
The early release of ex-President Fujimori highlights a delicate blend of political maneuvers, court battles, and appeals that culminated in his controversial release from prison.
