Peru's Ex-President Fujimori's Release Unfolds
Let's dive into the recent development in Peru's political landscape - the release of its former President, Alberto Fujimori. After serving a lengthy prison sentence, Fujimori is now a free man, thanks to a series of judicial decisions that have divided public opinion.
The Constitutional Court's Decision
Earlier this year, Peru's Constitutional Court made a surprising move, ordering the immediate release of Fujimori. The ex-president, who had been behind bars since 2009, had been convicted of crimes against humanity, including the involvement in massacres and forced sterilizations.
However, the Constitutional Court, in a 4-3 ruling, reinstated a pardon granted to Fujimori in 2017 by then-President Pablo Kuczynski. This pardon, which was revoked in 2018 due to massive protests, has now been brought back into play, paving the way for Fujimori's release.
The Backstory
Fujimori's reign from 1990 to 2000 was marked by powerful rule. His tenure saw him overseeing massacres by death squads and ordering rigorous action against left-wing forces, all while disempowering the parliament. A reported 30,000 indigenous women were forcibly sterilized during his time in office, perceived as an obstacle to development.
The Health Factor
Fujimori's health has also been a significant factor in this saga. He has been struggling with breathing difficulties, neurological problems, and high blood pressure. Multiple times, he was transferred from prison to hospital.
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The reinstatement of the pardon and Fujimori's subsequent release have stirred up a lot of controversy in Peru. The Constitutional Court's decision has been criticized, and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights has intervened, ordering Peru not to release Fujimori. However, despite these objections, Fujimori was finally freed from Barbadillo Prison in Lima on December 6, 2023.
The release of Alberto Fujimori is not just a political event but a social and moral one as well. It has divided public opinion and sparked heated debates about justice, accountability, and the role of the judiciary in upholding human rights.
