Peruvian Congress Sparks Outrage with Amnesty Bill for Counter-Terrorism Actions

Peruvian Congress Approves Amnesty Bill for Counter-Terrorism Actions: A Divisive Decision Lima, Peru – The Peruvian Congress's Constitution Commission ignited a firestorm of controversy on June 11, 2025, by approving a bill granting amnesty to military and police personnel for actions taken during the country's internal conflict against terrorism between 1980 and 2000. The decision, passed with 15 votes in favor, 6 against, and 3 abstentions, has sparked intense debate and criticism from various sectors of Peruvian society. Opponents of the bill, such as Congresswoman Ruth Luque of the Juntos por el Perú party, argue that it undermines the rights of victims and promotes impunity. "What this is doing is ignoring the rights of the victims," Luque stated, highlighting the imbalance of voices in the commission's decision-making process. Conversely, supporters of the bill contend that the state failed to properly address these cases in a timely manner and that the legal processes have been unduly prolonged. Congressman José Williams of Avanza País emphasized the prolonged suffering of families of those affected, stating that they have "paid with their money and suffered for a long time." The approval of the bill has not only intensified political divisions but also brought back painful memories of Peru's turbulent past. The debate underscores the complex challenges of balancing justice, reconciliation, and national healing in a country grappling with its history of violence.