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Pedro Castillo Requests Pardon from New Peruvian President Amid Political Turmoil

KVIA•Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 10:38 PM•CNN Newsource

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Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo, currently serving an 11-year sentence for conspiracy to rebellion, has formally requested a pardon from interim President José María Balcázar. Castillo argues that his conviction was the result of political persecution rather than a legitimate judicial process. He maintains his innocence and claims that there was no actual violence or successful coup attempt. This request comes shortly after Balcázar's election as interim president, following a series of political upheavals in Peru, including the ousting of Dina Boluarte. Castillo's plea highlights ongoing political instability in the country, especially with elections approaching on April 12.

Key Details: • Castillo is serving an 11-year sentence for conspiracy to rebellion. • He submitted his pardon request on Thursday to President Balcázar. • The next elections in Peru are scheduled for April 12. • Balcázar is a member of the same political party, Perú Libre, that backed Castillo. • Castillo claims his conviction was politically motivated and lacks legal justification.

politics peru indulto castillo balcazar

People & Organizations

PeruPedro CastilloDina BoluartePalacio de GobiernoPerú LibreJosé María BalcázarWalter AyalaBarbadillo

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