Peru’s Congress has officially declared Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum as persona non grata, meaning she is unwelcome in the country. This decision follows Peru’s recent severance of diplomatic ties with Mexico, which occurred after Mexico granted asylum to Betssy Chávez, a former Peruvian prime minister facing charges related to a 2022 coup attempt. Chávez denies any wrongdoing and claims she was not involved in the plan by former President Pedro Castillo to dissolve Congress. Currently, she has taken refuge in the Mexican embassy in Lima.
In response to the asylum offer, Mexico has stated that it acted in accordance with international law and has rejected Peru’s characterization of the move as an “unfriendly act.” The congressional vote to declare Sheinbaum unwelcome passed with a count of 63 in favor and 33 against, reflecting escalating tensions between the two nations. During the proceedings, Peruvian legislators alleged that Sheinbaum has connections to drug trafficking, although no supporting evidence was provided.
Chávez, who was previously imprisoned over her alleged involvement in Castillo’s actions, was released on bail in September. Prosecutors are currently seeking a 25-year prison sentence for her. Peruvian Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela has indicated that legal experts are reviewing the 1954 Caracas Convention on diplomatic asylum, which Mexico cited in its justification for granting asylum to Chávez. He noted that Mexico has previously attempted to frame coup participants as victims, asserting that Peruvians prioritize democracy.
Additionally, Peru has accused Mexico of interfering in its internal matters, referencing instances such as the expulsion of Mexico’s ambassador in 2022 when asylum was granted to Castillo’s family. The debate continues as Chavéz remains in asylum, and tensions linger between the two countries.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly9x8vv9v9o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss