Peruvian president under fire for secretive surgery absence
President of Peru Dina Boluarte has become the center of controversy after confirming that she secretly underwent nose surgery. Former Prime Minister Alberto Otarola revealed that the procedure aimed to improve her breathing. Boluarte's absence sparked debates about a possible constitutional violation.
8:46 AM EST, December 4, 2024
Boluarte's absence from public life lasted 12 days, sparking heated debates in parliament about whether a constitutional violation occurred.
Peruvian president faces challenges that may threaten her position
The procedure, which took place in the middle of last year, was the subject of media speculation but has only now been officially confirmed. Otarola explained before a congressional committee that the president was carrying out her duties virtually during her recovery.
To clarify the situation with the president, a special committee was formed in the local parliament. On Tuesday, former Prime Minister of Peru Alberto Otarola testified before it.
He confirmed the rumors about the surgery. "She told me she was going to get a rhinoplasty... a surgery on the nose," Otarola stated. He also added that the president underwent the procedure due to breathing problems.
However, the controversy arises from not informing Congress about her absence, which might be considered a constitutional violation.
Boluarte, who took office after Pedro Castillo's failed coup, is one of the least popular leaders in the world. Her presidency is negatively viewed by 94 percent of citizens, according to a November survey, while only 3 percent view it positively. This is the worst approval rating for a Peruvian president since 1980.
Additionally, she faces trouble with the prosecutor's office. She is accused of being responsible for the deaths of dozens of people during protests against her government. Despite this, Boluarte does not intend to step down before the end of her term in 2026.
