Peru: Anti-corruption demonstration to be held in Lima on January 17

Event

Civil society groups and opposition parties have called for a demonstration to be held in Lima on Thursday, January 17, to protest the handling of the Odebrecht corruption scandal. Demonstrators are expected to assemble at 17:00 (local time) near the Ovalo de Miraflores before marching towards the Brazilian embassy on Avenida José Pardo. Heightened security measures and localized traffic disruptions are expected around the demonstration. Further associated demonstrations are possible in the coming days.

Context

Demonstrations broke out across Peru on December 31 after Attorney General Pedro Chavarry dismissed a team of prosecutors investigating the Odebrecht corruption scandal. Prosecutors have been investigating allegations several officials took bribes in the form of campaign donations from Odebrecht in exchange for pledges to have the Brazilian company win local tenders for construction projects. Corruption is a major issue in Peru, where scandals and mass protests have over the past year led to the resignation of former President Pedro Kuczynski, the president of the Supreme Court, and a Justice Minister.  

Advice

Individuals in Peru are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all protests as a precaution, and obey all instructions issued by the local authorities.