UN experts call Peru's detention of ex-President Castillo 'arbitrary,' recommend release

A group of United Nations experts has declared the detention of former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo "arbitrary," recommending his immediate release. Castillo, a former teacher and union leader, was arrested in December 2022 after attempting to dissolve Congress amid an impeachment process. He was later sentenced to 11 and a half years in prison for conspiracy and rebellion.

The UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, composed of independent experts, issued a report on June 4, stating that Castillo's deprivation of liberty occurred without an independent judicial order. The experts noted that his arrest was initiated by the prosecutor's office and that his immunity as president was only lifted by Congress after his capture. They also concluded that Castillo's right to defense was compromised.

The working group urged the Peruvian government to "take the necessary measures to remedy Mr. Castillo's situation without delay." They specified that "adequate remedy" includes his immediate release and the right to compensation. The report, while not legally binding, was published discreetly on the group's website earlier this month.

Peru's interim president, José María Balcázar, indicated that the report could bolster a new pardon request from Castillo's defense. He stated that any new request would be analyzed in light of this "new" report, as previous requests lacked the necessary context and supporting evidence. Castillo remains imprisoned in a special facility for former leaders in Lima, following his arrest as he was en route to the Mexican embassy. His downfall triggered violent protests that resulted in over 50 civilian deaths.

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