Controversy over Peruvian Housing Minister's Arequipa plan

Following his appointment as Peru’s Minister of Housing, Construction and Sanitation, Mauricio Arnillas proposed an urgent decree to formalize informal settlements in the north and south cones of Arequipa. This plan, which would impact approximately 300,000 residents, faced criticism from urban planning specialists who argued the measure violates the constitutional hierarchy of norms. Experts stated that land-use planning must be governed by organic law and municipal ordinances rather than supreme decrees, noting the proposal lacked necessary risk assessments and environmental consultations.

During a visit to the Yura district in Arequipa, Arnillas reaffirmed his commitment to the region by promising land titling for informal settlements and the unblocking of water and sewage projects. The situation has also drawn scrutiny regarding administrative appointments within the ministry, specifically the hiring of Sitza Lita Romero Peralta as Head of Institutional Image. The College of Journalists of Lima has opposed this appointment, asserting that the role requires specialized training to protect the public’s right to transparent information.

Expanding the ministry’s scope, Arnillas has also initiated earthquake relief efforts in the Junín region. In the Pumpunya center, the ministry has installed 48 temporary housing modules for affected families, with plans to deploy an additional 482 modules across six districts, including Chongos Bajo and Viques.