Prime Minister of Peru Steps down Following the Leak of a Recording Involving a Woman

Peru’s Prime Minister, Alberto Otárola, has stepped down amidst allegations of leveraging his position to assist a woman in securing lucrative government contracts.

The scandal unfolded when a Peruvian TV network aired audio recordings purportedly capturing conversations between Otárola, 57, and the woman, Yaziré Pinedo, 25.

Despite denying any misconduct, a formal investigation has been initiated into the matter. The audio clips allegedly feature Otárola expressing affection for Pinedo and requesting her CV, contradicting his earlier assertion that they had only met once.

Both parties claim the recordings date back to 2021, predating Otárola’s cabinet tenure. Nevertheless, President Dina Boluarte recalled Otárola from an official visit to Canada, leading to his resignation.

Otárola accused detractors of orchestrating a smear campaign, implicating former Prime Minister Martín Vizcarra.

“Those who have always wanted me out of the government… have not even hesitated to edit an audio with the veiled purpose of tarnishing my image,” Mr Otárola said in his resignation speech.

Among those he has accused of being part of a plot to disgrace him is former Prime Minister Martín Vizcarra, who said on social media that he “strongly rejected” the “delusional accusations,” he stated.

Peruvian law dictates that all 18 cabinet members must resign alongside Otárola, leaving the president with the discretion to reappoint them. The Peruvian government, under Boluarte’s leadership, has witnessed several reshuffles amid efforts to stabilize her administration amidst opposition.

Source: BBC

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