Pedro Castillo seeks release in virtual habeas corpus hearing

Former Peruvian President Pedro Castillo appeared in a virtual hearing before the Second Constitutional Court of Lima to argue a habeas corpus petition. His legal team is seeking his immediate release and the revocation of his current detention at the Barbadillo prison, where he is serving an 11-year and 5-month sentence for conspiracy to commit rebellion.

Castillo argued that his arrest on December 7, 2022, was conducted outside of legal procedures while he was still the head of state. His defense cited a resolution from the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which concluded his apprehension was arbitrary and recommended the Peruvian state evaluate his release.

During the hearing, Castillo claimed he was never properly notified of the impeachment motion or the political trial process, asserting this violated Article 8 of the American Convention on Human Rights. He further contested the prosecution's claim of flagrancy, stating no weapons were raised during his national address from the Government Palace.