This July 28th, Pedro Castillo Terrones and his “Free Peru” party will have completed one year as president-elect of Peru. The Peruvian people face an economic and social crisis. The situation constantly promotes class struggle, empty projects and false promises, which were the main reasons for his election.
For reference, since the start of his political career they started promising popular projects such as a new education system with more schools for the poorest regions, and better distribution for medicine and vaccines and to “reject the presidential salary” since this was a government by the people to the people.
Ironically, throughout this year a number of reports and fiscal investigations were launched for charges of abuse of power, embezzlement and corruption. Every day new evidence and testimonies emerge confirming a criminal mafia headed by the president.
The latest scandal shook the entire Peruvian population. Currently the country is going through a food crisis, and the harsh winter wreaks havoc on the population. Add this to the strikes and walkouts by truckers nationwide. Consequently, the food prices are skyrocketing alarmingly.
The basic income does not rise, Peruvians must do more with less and they can’t stop seeking help from their leader. Their president, the person who promised “No more poor people in a rich country”. Ironically, the only one who enriches himself with public funds. For 11 months served in office, the presidency has gobbled up 3.8 million soles for food expenses. That’s scandalous and insulting considering the deplorable situation for most Peruvians. dozens of families look for something to eat in public dining rooms and communal pots.
A recurring phrase in the interviews is “I am learning every day” as a justification for the already 4 cabinets of congressmen changed by being opposed to the change of constitution mentioning that it is a political conspiracy against him. Hopefully no more, and 13 resignations of ministers chosen by Pedro Castillo himself. A testament of his inexperience and inability to competently hold the position.
With each passing day the president’s approval rating dwindles. At the onset of 2022, the polls showed a 66% disapproval rating signifying the general public sentiments indicating the president’s leadership style. It’s laughable and contemptuous, he victimizes himself for “not being from the capital and having ideas in favor of the people.” The very people he robs from?
Clearly his management, despite being socialist and leftist, seeks a contest between Lima, the capital and the rest of the Peruvian cities, between rich and poor. Faced with the forcefulness of the facts, one finds similarities with governments of the extreme left such as Venezuela or Cuba. Also add that several of its members and party members are related to extreme leftist groups and even terrorist forces.
The Peruvian people are watching carefully. July 28 is approaching Independence day. The day to celebrate 201 years of independence. The president normally addresses the nation. The masses await. Our collective hope is that he announces a drop in food prices, policies and laws aimed at the country’s benefit. A year has elapsed since he got into power and nothing much to show for it. Let’s hope the remaining 3 years he manages to serve the public. The clock is ticking!
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