Peru has announced a significant diplomatic step, severing ties with Mexico following Mexico’s decision to grant asylum to Betssy Chávez, a former prime minister accused of participating in a coup attempt in 2022. The Peruvian government expressed profound regret and surprise over this move, deeming it an “unfriendly act” that interferes with Peru’s internal affairs.
Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela stated that Mexico’s actions, including the repeated interference by its current and former presidents in Peru’s domestic matters, were excessive and disproportionate. He specifically criticized Mexico for portraying those allegedly involved in the coup attempt as victims, emphasizing Peru’s commitment to democracy, a stance he asserted Mexico alone did not support.
Betssy Chávez was previously detained in June 2023 for her alleged role in ousted President Pedro Castillo’s plan to dissolve congress. Although released on bail in September, she maintained her innocence. Prosecutors are seeking a 25-year prison sentence for her involvement.
This diplomatic rupture is the latest development in the escalating tensions between Peru and Mexico since Castillo’s removal from office. In 2022, Peru expelled Mexico’s ambassador after Mexico offered asylum to Castillo’s family. Furthermore, Peru recalled its ambassador to Mexico a year later when President Andrés Manuel López Obrador voiced his support for Castillo, calling his impeachment “illegal.”
Pedro Castillo, a former primary school teacher and union activist, rose to prominence as Peru’s first president from a humble background. Despite a lack of prior political experience, he aimed to address Peru’s economic challenges and support its impoverished population. However, his presidency was cut short after his unconstitutional attempt to disband congress led to his impeachment and arrest in December 2022. Prosecutors are seeking a 34-year jail term for Castillo, who claims the military did not support his orders.
His successor, Dina Boluarte, was recently removed from office by Congress amidst widespread protests against political scandals and rising crime rates. Congress leader José Jeri has since been sworn in as interim president.