Peru has intensified its legal actions against Betssy Chávez, the country’s former prime minister, by issuing an international arrest warrant over her alleged involvement in the failed 2022 self-coup attempt by former President Pedro Castillo. The move escalates an already severe political and diplomatic crisis that continues to shake the Andean nation.
Why the Arrest Warrant Was Issued
A Peruvian court approved prosecutors’ request for an international warrant after alleging that Chávez played an active role in Castillo’s attempt to dissolve Congress, an act widely condemned as unconstitutional.
At the time of the attempted dissolution, Chávez was serving as prime minister, placing her at the center of what authorities have described as a coordinated effort to undermine democratic order.
She is currently staying inside the Mexican embassy in Lima, where she was granted asylum. Her presence there has prevented Peruvian authorities from carrying out her arrest.
The court has also issued a five-month preventive detention order, to take effect once she is taken into custody.
Charges Chávez Faces
Prosecutors accuse Chávez of:
- Conspiracy and rebellion
- Participation in actions aimed at subverting constitutional order
- Supporting Castillo’s attempt to dissolve Congress
If convicted, she could face up to 25 years in prison, according to legal filings presented to the court.
Diplomatic Fallout With Mexico
The case has triggered a diplomatic rupture between Peru and Mexico:
- Peru accused Mexico of interfering in its judicial processes by granting Chávez asylum.
- In response, Peru announced the severing of diplomatic ties with Mexico.
- Mexican officials maintain that Chávez’s asylum was granted on humanitarian grounds.
Chávez has remained inside the embassy for months, effectively shielded from arrest due to diplomatic protections.
Why Enforcement Is Complicated
Even with the international warrant:
- Chávez cannot be arrested while she remains inside the Mexican embassy.
- Peru may seek support from Interpol, but international law prevents action inside embassies.
- Negotiations or diplomatic agreements would be required to secure safe conduct or transfer.
Her legal team is expected to argue that her political asylum should override Peru’s arrest efforts.
Background: The 2022 Crisis
In December 2022, then-President Pedro Castillo attempted to dissolve Congress hours before an impeachment vote. The military, judiciary, and legislature rejected the move, describing it as an attempted self-coup. Castillo was arrested that same day.
Chávez, as prime minister, has long faced accusations of supporting the attempt. She denies wrongdoing, insisting she acted within constitutional boundaries.
What Happens Next
- Mexico’s position: Mexico has not indicated any willingness to expel Chávez, making a handover unlikely in the short term.
- Legal appeals: Chávez’s attorneys are expected to challenge the court’s decision, arguing political persecution.
- Political tension: The case is likely to deepen divisions between supporters of the previous government and those backing current judicial proceedings.
Peru’s judiciary maintains that the charges are strictly legal, not political — but the case continues to fuel nationwide debate.
📚 References
- Anews – Peru issues international arrest warrant for ex-PM on coup charges anews.com.tr
- BSS / AFP – Peru issues international arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Betssy Chávez BSS
- Al Jazeera – Peru severs diplomatic relations with Mexico over ex-PM asylum Al Jazeera
- Anadolu Agency – Peru breaks diplomatic ties with Mexico over ex-premier’s asylum anews.com.tr
- Channel TV – Peru issues international arrest warrant for ex-PM on coup charges Channels Television
- Los Angeles Times – Peru breaks diplomatic relations with Mexico after ex-PM flees to embassy latimes.com
