Peru grants amnesty to military, police accused of past rights violations

By Asiye Latife Yilmaz

ISTANBUL (AA) - Peruvian President Dina Boluarte enacted a law Wednesday granting amnesty to military and police personnel accused of committing human rights violations between 1980 and 2000.

The legislation shields former soldiers, police officers and self-defense committee members from criminal prosecution and conviction over alleged serious human rights violations committed during Peru’s conflict with Maoist Shining Path insurgents and other rebel groups.

Boluarte signed the measure passed by Congress in July, defying an order from the Inter-American Court of Human Rights to halt its implementation until its effects on victims could be reviewed.

“With the enactment of this amnesty law, the Peruvian government and congress recognize the sacrifice of members of the armed forces, the police and self-defense groups in the fight against terrorism,” Boluarte said.

“We’re giving them back the dignity that should never have been questioned,” she added.

Between 1980 and 2000, Peru endured a violent conflict between government forces and leftist rebel groups such as the Shining Path. Both sides carried out massacres, kidnappings and attacks on civilians, resulting in a death toll estimated at up to 70,000.

Survivors and relatives of the victims have persisted in their pursuit of justice and accountability.