Andina

Business organizations call for prudence amid Odebrecht allegations

LIMA PERÚ, NOVIEMBRE 18.Juan Varilias, presidente de ADEX brinda entrevista a la Agencia Andina durante el APEC 2016. Foto: ANDINA/Vidal Tarqui

18:58 | Lima, Dec. 15.

Business organizations in Peru have expressed their views in response to recent Odebrecht-related corruption allegations.

Last night, Peruvian President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski delivered an address in which he denied wrongdoing and ties to the corruption-tainted firm. 

In this sense, Lima Chamber of Commerce (CCL) President Mario Mongilardi urged the political class to act responsibly and wait for Odebrecht investigation to be concluded. 

"We all must act responsibly, set Peru as our goal and minimize the negative impact this situation may have on the economy," he told Andina news agency.

He went on to say the political crisis has to be resolved in compliance with the Constitution and democracy.

For his part, Peruvian Exporters Association (Adex) Chairman Juan Varilias warned of rushed procedures concerning President Kuczynski's situation and gave notice that a resignation or impeachment may have a negative effect on the economy.

"Something important was missing. We had to listen to the President, and he addressed the nation last night. His version was somewhat different to what has been said so far," he told RPP radio and TV news station.

Varilias also noted the fact that Mr. Kuczynski is willing to address the Congress' Lava Jato investigative commission.

On the other hand, the National Confederation of Private Business Associations (Confiep) believes the political elite must defend Peru's governability and development.

"We express our concern over the political crisis facing our country due to the scourge of corruption, to which we are strongly opposed," a release stated.

In this respect, Confiep exhorted all political forces and the Judiciary Branch to be prudent. Plus, it demanded respect for the due process and the constitutional order in favor of the country.

(END) RGP/VVS/RMB

Published: 12/15/2017