Former Peruvian President Fujimori Steps Out of Prison Cells
The ex-leader was greeted by his children, Keiko and Kenji, who had long called for his release. A supporter, who had been camped outside the prison for his freedom, exclaimed to the AFP news agency, "Our hearts are bursting with happiness because this man has been unjustly imprisoned."
Tuesday's decision from the Peruvian Constitutional Court reinstated a pardon granted to Fujimori by former President Pablo Kuczynski in 2017, a move that was subsequently revoked in 2018 following a wave of protests.
Fujimori reigned over Peru with an iron fist from 1990 to 2000, and in 2007, a court sentenced him to 25 years in prison for committing human rights atrocities. His rule saw massacres orchestrated by death squads, primarily targeting the Shining Path guerrilla group in the 1990s.
The frail Fujimori has battled breathing difficulties, neurological issues, and high blood pressure, frequently requiring hospital transfers from prison.
Additional Examining Factors
- Hasty Pardon and Reinstatement:
- Kuczynski's Pardon: Fujimori received a controversial medical pardon from Kuczynski in December 2017, which was promptly challenged.
- Supreme Court's Overturn and Constitutional Court's Reinstatement: The pardon was rescinded in 2018, only to be reinstated again by the Constitutional Court in 2022.
- IACHR's Counteraction: The Inter-American Court of Human Rights intervened, disregarding the Constitutional Court's decision, and delayed Fujimori's release until December 2023.
- Legal Considerations:
- Human Rights Violations: Fujimori was convicted for ordering the abuses committed by death squads, among other transgressions, resulting in a hefty sentence.
- Embezzlement and Bribery: He also endured sentences for these charges, which were served at the same time as his initial conviction.
- Statute of Limitations: Critics denounced the Peruvian Congress for passing a bill that set a time limit for crimes against humanity committed prior to July 1, 2002, interfering with victims' right to pursue justice.
- Political Fallouts and Popular Reactions:
- Political Strategies: Supporters argue that the pardon and release efforts were driven by political maneuvers, including Fujimori's son, Kenji.
- Protests and Controversies: Fujimori's controversial release sparked demonstrations, resulting in resignations from Kuczynski's political party.
Upon February 1, 2024, Fujimori was released from prison, leaving open the question of his liability for future actions under Peruvian laws.
