Peruvian President Cleared of 'Rolexgate' Charges Amid Corruption Inquiry

In a significant move, the Peruvian congressional committee has dismissed the investigation into President Dina Boluarte regarding the “Rolexgate” scandal, providing her temporary immunity from impeachment amid ongoing allegations of luxury watch bribery and corruption.

In Peru, a congressional committee has recently decided to close the investigation into President Dina Boluarte linked to the “Rolexgate” scandal. This decision provides a shield against impeachment for the beleaguered president, whose approval ratings linger in the single digits. The subcommittee's ruling means while Boluarte remains in office, she is currently protected from formal impeachment proceedings. However, the cloud of potential criminal charges remains, as she could face legal actions once she exits office next year, losing her presidential immunity.

The scandal, which revolves around allegations that Boluarte received luxury Rolex watches as bribes, has sparked significant public attention. Authorities initiated the investigation after a media report highlighted the expensive timepieces she sported during official public events. In March 2024, Boluarte's residence was raided by police as part of the inquiry, with officers searching for over a dozen luxury watches that she allegedly failed to declare.

Following a subpoena demanding proof of purchase for her collection, prosecutors denied her request for an extension to respond, resulting in the raid of both her home and the government palace. Officials from Boluarte's government have labeled these actions as "disproportionate and unconstitutional." The president has consistently maintained her innocence, asserting that she entered power "with clean hands" and plans to leave under the same principle, claiming her Rolex was an older item purchased through her own earnings.

In addition to the Rolexgate investigation, Boluarte is also under scrutiny for a separate incident regarding a two-week unannounced absence in 2023, during which she underwent nose surgery without delegating her authority. This political turmoil follows Boluarte's rise to presidency after her predecessor, Pedro Castillo, was impeached for attempting to dissolve Congress. His ousting led to violent protests, resulting in dozens of fatalities as citizens demanded Boluarte's resignation. The next round of presidential and legislative elections in Peru is scheduled for April 2026.