Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has began a hunger strike to protest what he called “injustices” in his ongoing rebellion trial.
The 55-year-old announced his decision on social media with a handwritten letter signed “president in captivity.”
Castillo is facing serious charges in connection with his broadcast effort on December 7, 2022, to dissolve Congress and rule by decree.
In a trial that began on March 4, prosecutors are seeking a 34-year prison sentence for mutiny, misuse of authority, and disturbing public order.
Prison officials replied quickly to his protest. The National Penitentiary Institute described his refusal to eat as a “serious disciplinary infraction.” Castillo was sentenced to one week in solitary confinement with suspended visitor rights.
Ayala defended his client in a radio program, claiming that Castillo never took up arms and had no military backing for his activities. “They have imprisoned an innocent man,” Ayala stated. He defined the hunger strike as a peaceful demonstration intended to raise awareness of Castillo’s condition.
