Peru seeks to reform law preventing removal of police chief

The Peruvian government is seeking to modify Law 31570, a regulation that currently prevents the Executive branch from removing the Commander General of the National Police (PNP), Óscar Arriola, before his two-year term ends in 2027. Prime Minister Luis Galarreta admitted that the law, originally passed to ensure institutional stability, may have been a mistake as it limits the government's ability to respond to rapidly changing crime dynamics.

Interior Minister César Astudillo described the current legal requirements for dismissal as “locks” that hinder effective leadership. He announced that the Ministry of the Interior will propose a reform to allow for more flexible management of high-ranking police officials based on performance and results. This move comes amid intense criticism from lawmakers, including Deputy Harvey Colchado, who cited rising crime and inefficiency as reasons for Arriola's immediate removal.

To facilitate these changes, the Executive plans to request delegated legislative powers from Congress. This package of reforms will also aim to address the “revolving door” phenomenon in the criminal justice system by modifying penal norms that allow for the rapid release of violent offenders.