The political climate in Peru remains turbulent as President Dina Boluarte finds herself entangled in a controversy surrounding her ownership of luxury Rolex watches, sparking an investigation into potential illicit enrichment.
Since ascending to power in 2022 after her predecessor’s impeachment, Boluarte has faced mounting challenges, with protests erupting and subsequent crackdowns leading to casualties. Despite surviving initial calls for resignation and demands for early elections, Boluarte now faces renewed pressure to step down due to the Rolex scandal.
The scandal unfolded when a popular political YouTube show, “La Encerrona,” scrutinized numerous photos of Boluarte adorned with Rolex watches valued between $14,000 and $25,000. Subsequently, the Peruvian prosecutor’s office initiated “preliminary proceedings” against Boluarte for alleged illicit enrichment and failure to disclose ownership of the expensive timepieces.
In response, a dramatic raid was conducted at Boluarte’s residence on Good Friday, yielding “elements of interest” for the investigation, including at least one Rolex watch along with several lower-priced timepieces from other brands. Notably, Boluarte’s official salary as president is significantly lower than the value of the luxury watches in question.
The unfolding scandal has triggered a flurry of political maneuvers, with Boluarte’s defense initially seeking to delay her testimony citing “political turbulence.” However, amidst mounting pressure, the defense is now requesting Boluarte’s statement be expedited.
In Congress, predominantly left-wing legislators have initiated a motion to impeach Boluarte for “permanent moral incapacity,” a move requiring the support of 52 out of 130 legislators to proceed. Yet, impeachment remains uncertain as right-wing legislators, who hold the majority, are inclined to support Boluarte.
The fallout from the scandal has already seen significant repercussions, with six of Boluarte’s ministers, including the interior minister, tendering their resignations. The confirmation of Gustavo Adrianzen as prime minister hinges on a vote of confidence in Congress, further adding to the political uncertainty.
Peru’s history is marred by political upheavals, with several former presidents facing impeachment or corruption charges. From Pedro Pablo Kuczynski’s resignation in 2018 to Pedro Castillo’s recent impeachment in December, the nation’s leadership has been plagued by instability and allegations of misconduct.
As the investigation into Boluarte’s Rolex scandal unfolds, Peru stands at a critical juncture, grappling with deep-seated political divisions and a pervasive culture of corruption that continues to undermine its democratic institutions.