Peruvian President Grants Amnesty to Security Forces in Bid to Close Terrorism Chapter, Sparks Debate Over Accountability

In a significant development, President Dina Boluarte has enacted legislation offering amnesty to security personnel, military members, and civilians associated with self-defense units who were involved in counterterrorism operations during Peru’s two-decade battle against leftist militant groups.

The legislation extends protection to those within the security forces implicated in abuses during this period but excludes individuals who have already been convicted or face charges related to terrorism or corruption.

Between 1980 and 2000, Peru’s security apparatus was embroiled in conflict with rebel organizations such as the Shining Path and Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement, resulting in an estimated 69,000 deaths, as per the Peruvian truth commission. Additionally, numerous individuals were reported missing during this period.

The implementation of this amnesty has faced criticism from certain human rights groups, who argue it jeopardizes efforts to bring accountability for crimes committed during that time. Some legislators also opposed the bill’s passage through Congress.

Under the new law, individuals aged 70 and above currently incarcerated will also benefit, unless they have been convicted on terrorism or corruption charges. Currently, over 1,000 people are under investigation or prosecution for their involvement in countering terrorism, according to El Peruano.

At the bill-signing ceremony, President Boluarte stated that this new law serves as a beacon of peace rather than division, and marks a step towards moving past the dark chapter of terrorism.

Justice Minister Enrique Alcántara defended the legislation, contending it promotes justice and is grounded in the principles of the Peruvian Constitution and the Inter-American Convention on Human Rights, which guarantee a timely resolution to legal matters.

However, Human Rights Watch deemed the new law as a betrayal of victims of abuse. Juanita Goebertus, Americas director at Human Rights Watch, stated, “This legislation undermines decades of efforts to ensure accountability for atrocities and further weakens Peru’s rule of law.”