Justice and Human Rights Minister Maria Soledad Perez Tello on Tuesday reiterated the call on former President Alejandro Toledo to return to Peru and bring himself to justice.
As is known, Toledo (2001-2006) is wanted for influence peddling and asset laundering charges within the framework of the massive Odebrecht graft case.
He has been accused of receiving US$20 million in bribes from the firm to secure the Inter-Oceanic Highway contract, a major infrastructure venture connecting Peru and Brazil.
The government official noted the process seeking Toledo's detention and extradition remains underway.
"Let us hope it [Toledo's extradition] takes place in the short term. It is a shame we have to use such mechanism; a former President must, at the very least, appear in court when required to clearly answer for the things he did or did not do," she told reporters.
"Failing to explain the things one has done seems like cowardice to me," she added.
Ollanta Humala
When consulted on former President Ollanta Humala's (2011-2016) involvement in Madre Mia events, the Justice head noted the case could be reopened in pursuit of the truth.
According to local media, Humala was accused of crimes against humanity in the 1990s, allegedly committed while running Madre Mia military base in 1992.
In this sense, Minister Perez Tello said the Public Ministry and Judicial Branch will be in charge of ruling on the matter.
"[…] an ex-President owes his country all corresponding explanations when information is requested," she insisted.
Alberto Fujimori
Regarding the pardon or house arrest possibility for former President Alberto Fujimori (1990-2000), Perez Tello dismissed the former, adding the latter falls under Congress.
Remarks were made after the launch of a human trafficking prevention campaign.
(END) VVS/CCR/DHT/MVB