Peruvian President Dina Boluarte appeared before prosecutors on Friday as part of an investigation into allegations of illicit enrichment and failure to declare assets. The probe was initiated after reports surfaced of Boluarte receiving luxury items, including expensive watches and jewelry.
Referred to as 'Rolexgate' on social media, the controversy centers around Boluarte's ownership of multiple high-end watches and a Cartier bracelet, with an estimated total value exceeding $500,000. These items were not declared to authorities as required by Peruvian law.
Despite facing public backlash and a record-low approval rating of 14%, Boluarte has maintained that the luxury items were acquired through her own hard work. However, the source of hundreds of thousands of dollars in bank transfers into her account remains unclear.
The investigation has expanded to uncover additional undeclared assets, prompting a search of Boluarte's residence and the presidential palace. While the police did not find the watches during the search, the prosecutor's office believes there are more undisclosed assets linked to the president.
As the political turmoil unfolds, analysts suggest that Boluarte is unlikely to face immediate consequences due to legal protections for sitting presidents in Peru. Despite calls for her removal from office, Boluarte's alliance with congressional leaders is expected to secure her position until 2026.
Peru, known for its political instability with six presidents in six years, continues to grapple with governance challenges. The ongoing scandal involving Boluarte raises concerns about the erosion of democratic norms and accountability within the country's political system.
