Peruvian Ministers' Lavish Meals Exposed Amidst Austerity Claims

Despite Austerity Claims, Peruvian Council of Ministers Meeting Features Lavish Food Expenses Lima, Peru – A recent report by América Noticias has revealed a discrepancy between the Peruvian government's announced austerity measures and the substantial expenses incurred for food at a Council of Ministers meeting. The report, which includes official invoices, shows that "lomo fino" (tenderloin), a high-priced cut of meat, was among the items purchased. This revelation comes just one month after América Noticias' Cuarto Poder program exposed the distribution of horse meat in school lunches through the Qali Warma program. The video highlights a receipt detailing the purchase of "lomo fino" costing 552.91 soles, along with other items such as oil, soda, mayonnaise, Edam cheese, plastic wrap, and special bread, totaling 945.81 soles. An additional invoice shows expenses of 668 soles for a subsequent meeting, including items like eggs, mayonnaise, soda, and cake. José Trelles, a lawyer specializing in state contracts, commented, "The austerity message is apparently for the lives and economy of citizens, but not for the use and misuse of public resources." The contrast between the government's public commitment to austerity and the high cost of food purchased for these meetings raises serious questions about transparency and accountability. The report underscores the need for more rigorous oversight of government spending and a thorough investigation into the procurement processes involved.