Background on Betssy Chávez and the Failed Coup Attempt
Betssy Chávez, Peru’s former Prime Minister, is currently facing charges as a alleged co-author of the failed coup attempt led by former President Pedro Castillo. The situation escalated when it was reported that Chávez sought asylum in Mexico’s embassy in Lima, according to Peruvian media outlets.
Peru’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hugo de Zela, Announces Severed Ties
During a press conference, Minister Hugo de Zela expressed shock and deep sorrow upon learning that ex-Prime Minister Betssy Chávez was taking refuge in Mexico’s embassy. He stated that the Peruvian government decided to cut diplomatic relations with Mexico due to this perceived interference in Peru’s internal affairs.
Reasons for Severing Diplomatic Ties
De Zela criticized Mexico’s stance, accusing them of attempting to create an alternative reality following the December 2022 events. He claimed that Mexico aims to portray the coup plotters as victims and dismissed Mexico’s President’s statements, which labeled Castillo as a political persecutee. De Zela emphasized that the decision to sever ties does not affect consular services, and Chávez’s asylum process must adhere to the 1954 Caracas Convention procedures.
Impact on Chávez’s Ongoing Trial
As the final arguments in Chávez’s trial for her alleged involvement in the December 2022 coup attempt approach, her lawyer, Raúl Noblecilla, has been unable to contact his client. Noblecilla warned that if Chávez fails to attend the upcoming hearing, the court may issue an arrest warrant.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Betssy Chávez? Betssy Chávez is Peru’s former Prime Minister, currently facing charges as a co-author of the failed coup attempt led by former President Pedro Castillo.
- Why did Peru sever diplomatic ties with Mexico? Peru’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hugo de Zela, announced the decision due to Mexico’s perceived interference in Peru’s internal affairs by granting asylum to Chávez.
- What is the status of Chávez’s trial? The final arguments in Chávez’s trial are approaching, and her lawyer has been unable to contact her. Failure to attend the upcoming hearing may result in an arrest warrant.
- Has Mexico responded to the situation? At the time of this report, Mexico has not issued an official statement regarding the matter. However, it is expected that Mexico’s Secretariat of Foreign Affairs will respond later.
