Andina

Peru President exercises right to defense at Congress

El presidente de la República, Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, llega al Congreso de la República, para asumir su defensa ante la moción de vacancia presidencial. Foto: ANDINA/ Prensa Presidencia

10:11 | Lima, Dec. 21.

President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski on Thursday morning arrived at the Legislative Palace to exercise his right to defense during a Congress plenary session aimed at debating a request to impeach him.

Joined by Vice-Presidents Martin Vizcarra and Mercedes Araoz, the Head of State arrived at the Parliament after 9:00 AM (local time).

Upon arrival, Peru's top official was welcomed with corresponding honors.

The leader is given at least two hours to present his defense before Congress, in response to a motion seeking to impeach him for moral incapacity. 

Mr. Kuczynski may leave the facilities after his address, if deemed appropriate. He is not expected to answer questions during his speech. 

The Peruvian leader is also joined by his lawyer Alberto Borea Odria.

Motion

As is known, Congress' opposition party Frente Amplio (Wide Front) last Friday filed a motion to impeach President Kuczynski on the grounds of moral incapacity, following corruption allegations involving scandal-plagued Odebrecht.

According to the Peruvian Constitution, the impeachment motion requires 87 (two-thirds) out of 130 votes to pass, no matter absences. 

(END) CCR/JAA/MVB

Published: 12/21/2017