A Peruvian court on Wednesday sentenced former President Martin Vizcarra to 14 years in prison for taking bribes while serving as regional governor.
Vizcarra, who denies the charges against him, is the latest Peruvian president to be jailed. Former presidents Pedro Castillo (2021–2022), Ollanta Humala (2011–2016), and Alejandro Toledo (2001–2006) are all currently behind bars in a special prison for former leaders in Lima.
The 62-year-old was found guilty of accepting bribes from construction companies during his tenure as governor of the southern Moquegua region between 2011 and 2014.
Prosecutors said he was given approximately $640,000 (€552,000) in exchange for favors for companies seeking public works contracts.
During his tenure as president between 2018 and 2020, Vizcarra supported the fight against corruption.
Vizcarra condemned ‘retaliation’
Vizcarra claimed his sentence was retribution for “standing up” to right-wing political groups that control Congress, chiefly the influence of the late former President Alberto Fujimori.
When Vizcarra led the South American country he clashed with these groups and ultimately dissolved Congress.
“This is not justice, this is revenge,” Vizcarra said on social media. “But they won’t break me.”
On Wednesday, Vizcarra was sentenced to immediate imprisonment and a nine-year ban from public office. He is expected to appeal the decision.
Edited by: Jennifer Cimino Gonzalez