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Lima, Peru – A Peruvian congressional subcommittee has halted its inquiry into President Dina Boluarte regarding accusations of accepting Rolex watches as bribes. The dismissal of this probe by the legislative body’s panel means Boluarte, whose public approval remains low, is currently protected from impeachment proceedings while in office. Despite this respite, the Peruvian president could still potentially confront formal charges once her presidential term concludes next year, at which point she would forfeit her presidential immunity.
Congressional Subcommittee Dismisses “Rolexgate” Inquiry
The contentious corruption investigation, widely known as “Rolexgate,” witnessed a police raid on Boluarte’s residence in March 2024. Authorities conducted the search to locate over a dozen luxury timepieces that Boluarte allegedly failed to declare in her asset declarations. This move by the congressional subcommittee effectively suspends the immediate threat of impeachment related to these allegations as Boluarte remains in power.
Investigation Triggered by Luxury Watch Reports
The formal inquiry was initiated following media reports highlighting the president’s repeated appearances at public engagements wearing high-end Rolex watches. Scrutiny intensified as questions arose concerning the origin and declaration of these valuable items.
Police Raid on Residence and Government Palace
Prior to the raid on her private home, state prosecutors rejected President Boluarte’s request for additional time to comply with a legal summons. The summons required her to furnish proof of purchase documentation for the watches in question. Adding to the intensity of the situation, Peru’s Government Palace also became subject to a police search in connection with the ongoing investigation.
Last year, the Peruvian government publicly criticized the police action, branding the raid as “disproportionate and unconstitutional,” signaling growing tensions between the executive and investigative branches.
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Boluarte Claims “Clean Hands” Amidst Allegations
President Boluarte has consistently maintained her innocence throughout the “Rolexgate” scandal. She asserted that she entered public service “with clean hands” and pledged to “leave it with clean hands.” Regarding the Rolex watch in question, she has stated it was an older possession, acquired using earnings from her employment since the age of 18.
Separate Probe and Political Instability
Beyond the Rolex allegations, President Boluarte is also facing a separate investigation concerning an undeclared two-week absence in 2023. This absence, reportedly for cosmetic nose surgery, occurred without the formal delegation of presidential powers, raising further questions about transparency and adherence to protocol.
Dina Boluarte assumed the presidency following the impeachment of her predecessor, Pedro Castillo. Castillo’s removal from office occurred after he attempted to dissolve the Peruvian Congress and govern by decree, a move that was deemed unconstitutional by lawmakers.
Castillo’s subsequent ousting ignited widespread and often violent protests, resulting in dozens of fatalities during clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement. Protesters demanded Boluarte’s resignation and early elections.
Peru’s next presidential and legislative elections are currently scheduled for April 2026, leaving a period of political uncertainty and potential instability in the nation.