Peruvian President Dina Boluarte Faces Investigation Over Rolex Watches
In a shocking turn of events, the police and prosecutors in Peru conducted a surprise raid at the home of President Dina Boluarte and the presidential palace early Saturday morning. The raid was part of an “unlawful enrichment” investigation following reports that President Boluarte had been seen wearing Rolex watches since taking office.
The investigation began after an online news program revealed that President Boluarte had started wearing increasingly expensive watches, including at least one Rolex, since assuming office in December 2022. Prosecutors suspect her of violating the country’s laws against unlawful enrichment and failing to declare assets.
President Boluarte failed to appear for a scheduled appointment with prosecutors to show them the Rolex watches and explain how she obtained them. She also refused to allow them into her house to execute a search warrant, leading Attorney General Juan Villena to describe her actions as “a clear indicator of rebellion.”
Despite denying any wrongdoing, President Boluarte has not publicly explained the origin of the Rolexes, only stating that the first watch in question was “from long ago.” She has called the accusations against her a “smokescreen” created by news outlets and has urged Peruvians to march in defense of democracy.
The controversy over the Rolex watches comes at a time when the Peruvian economy is struggling, and hunger is on the rise. Some political observers believe that the scandal could lead to a new round of political turmoil in a country that has seen six presidents in the past six years.
President Boluarte’s popularity is at an all-time low, with an approval rating of just nine percent. She took office after her predecessor, Pedro Castillo, was impeached and arrested for attempting to take over Congress and the justice system.
As the investigation into President Boluarte continues, lawmakers have secured enough support for a motion to impeach her in Congress. The outcome of the impeachment vote remains uncertain, but the situation is rapidly evolving, and the future of President Boluarte’s presidency hangs in the balance.
