Peru issues international arrest warrant for former prime minister

Peruvian court issues international arrest warrant for former prime minister Betssy Chavez, who is currently seeking asylum at the Mexican embassy in Lima.

The Supreme Court of Peru has issued an international arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Betssy Chavez, who is currently seeking asylum at the Mexican embassy in Lima. Judge Juan Carlos Checkley issued the warrant on 18/11/2022, publicly announcing it on 21/11/2022. The warrant has been forwarded to Peru's national police and the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol). According to the court's ruling, Chavez faces 5 months of detention prior to trial due to a perceived flight risk.

Chavez, 36, briefly served as prime minister under President Pedro Castillo. Castillo, a former rural teacher, was known as Peru's "first poor president." He was impeached in 12/2022 following an attempt to dissolve congress and was arrested while en route to the Mexican embassy in Lima to seek asylum with his family.

Mexico subsequently granted asylum to Castillo's wife and children. This move angered Peru, leading to the expulsion of Mexico's ambassador.

Betssy Chavez at congress in Lima, Peru in 11/2022. *Photo: Peruvian Congress*

Former Prime Minister Chavez was also arrested in 6/2023. She faces charges of conspiracy against the state and participating in former President Castillo's coup attempt. Chavez has consistently denied the allegations, stating she was unaware of Castillo's plans.

In 9/2023, Chavez was released on bail pending trial. On 3/11/2023, she sought asylum at the Mexican embassy in Lima, which was granted. Peru responded by severing diplomatic ties with Mexico over this development.

Prosecutors are seeking a 34-year prison sentence for Castillo and a 25-year sentence for Chavez.

Following the issuance of the arrest warrant, security was heightened around the Mexican embassy. National Police Chief Oscar Arriola, however, stated that police would not enter the embassy, emphasizing, "we respect the right to seek asylum and political asylum, and we comply with regulations established under international norms."

Prime Minister Ernesto Alvarez reiterated Peru's stance, asserting that the country "respects international law and has no intention of using violence, much less violating international law regarding diplomatic immunity."