Peru's president Dina Boluarte faces backlash over secret nose job – could this end Her term?
World News: Boluarte has already faced immense scrutiny during her tenure, with allegations ranging from accepting bribes in the form of Rolex watches to being held responsible for the deaths of over 50 protesters during a crackdown on demonstrations demanding her resignation in 2022.
World News: The revelation that Peruvian President Dina Boluarte secretly underwent a nose job in 2023 has set off a storm of controversy, with critics demanding her removal from office for failing to delegate her responsibilities during the procedure. The surgery, which took place in the summer of 2023, was officially confirmed on Tuesday after Boluarte's former Prime Minister, Alberto Otarola, disclosed it to a congressional commission.
The Secret Surgery and the Fallout
Boluarte, 62, underwent rhinoplasty to address breathing issues. Otarola, who served as her prime minister until March, explained that Boluarte had confided in him about her need for the surgery. "She told me she was going to get a rhinoplasty... a surgery on the nose, but for breathing problems," Otarola told lawmakers during the inquiry.
Despite the fact that Boluarte carried out her presidential duties virtually during her recovery, critics argue that her failure to inform the public or delegate her powers to Congress constitutes a violation of Peru's constitution.
Constitutional Concerns and Growing Calls for Her Removal
The controversy has intensified as lawmakers and legal experts contend that Boluarte's actions could warrant her dismissal. Juan Burgos, head of the congressional oversight commission, stated, "It would be cause for dismissal... because the president should have asked permission from Congress."
Boluarte has already faced immense scrutiny during her tenure, with allegations ranging from accepting bribes in the form of Rolex watches to being held responsible for the deaths of over 50 protesters during a crackdown on demonstrations demanding her resignation in 2022. Her disapproval rating remains close to 95%, and she has no party backing in Congress.
Is This the End of Boluarte's Presidency?
The incident surrounding her secret surgery comes at a time when Boluarte’s presidency is already on shaky ground. With her term set to end in July 2026, the controversy surrounding her actions could further destabilize her government and lead to her removal from office.