Peruvian deputy withdraws bill on criminalizing apology for罪

Aldo Antonio Bravo Quispe, a deputy from the Renovación Popular party, introduced a legislative proposal in Peru to criminalize the “aggravated apology for a crime” during periods of social conflict or political crisis.

The bill sought to amend the Penal Code to impose prison sentences of four to six years for individuals who use digital platforms, mass media, or public demonstrations to promote or justify violent acts, specifically mentioning the use of explosives or incendiary devices. The proposal included aggravating circumstances for those with significant public influence, such as public officials, political leaders, journalists, and digital influencers. Under the proposed law, public officials could also face disqualification from office.

Journalistic organizations, including the National Association of Journalists and the Consejo de la Prensa Peruana (CPP), expressed strong opposition. Critics argued that the bill’s language was imprecise and ambiguous, particularly regarding the definition of a “political crisis,” warning it could lead to the criminalization of legitimate journalistic reporting and violate constitutional rights to freedom of expression.

On August 23, 2026, Deputy Bravo announced he would withdraw the legislative project (N.° 00043/2026-2031-CD). He stated the withdrawal was intended to avoid distracting from the country’s priority legislative agenda, which focuses on citizen security and mitigating the effects of the El Niño phenomenon. While the bill has been withdrawn for now, Bravo indicated he may refine the proposal and reintroduce it in the future.