Peru's former president Pedro Castillo faces legal battles and UN criticism

A United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention concluded that former President Pedro Castillo's 2022 arrest was unlawful and recommended his immediate release, compensation and investigation of the authorities involved. The Peruvian government and Justice Ministry rejected the report as non‑binding, sparking a political dispute.

Domestic courts have now admitted a habeas corpus petition filed by Castillo’s lawyer, seeking to nullify his detention, the congressional vacancy and his conviction for rebellion. Parallel to the judicial actions, legal scholars and opposition politicians argue that President José María Balcázar cannot grant a presidential pardon to Castillo without the signature of the Justice Minister, warning that any such un‑endorsed indult would be void and could expose officials to political, penal and constitutional liability. Castillo’s supporters have also filed a humanitarian pardon request, citing the former president’s deteriorating health. The controversy continues to dominate Peru’s political arena, with debates over human‑rights obligations, constitutional procedures and the role of international recommendations.