"Testimony of a non-commissioned officer in the Boluarte case raises doubts about his appointment in Spain."

In an unexpected turn in the investigation surrounding President Dina Boluarte's visit to a condominium in the south of the country, Peruvian National Police sub-official Ruth Ligarda has offered her testimony to the Prosecutor's Office. This event has gained relevance not only due to the context of the statement but also because of the recent announcement of her appointment as auxiliary staff at the police attaché office in the Peruvian embassy in Spain. The government's decision to send Ligarda abroad has raised questions about possible political motivations and the transparency of these appointments. During her statement on December 12, 2024, Ligarda claimed that she was not present during President Boluarte's visit to the Mikonos condominium on February 24, 2024. According to her account, she was off duty that day and returned to work the following day. This detail is crucial, as the president's visit has been the subject of various speculations and criticisms, placing the sub-official in a delicate position amid this scandal. Throughout the careful interrogation, Ligarda explained that she was relieved of her shift through a WhatsApp exchange and that her itinerary for that day began at kilometer 108 of the Panamericana Sur. Her statement suggests a well-defined operational structure, where each member of the escort has a specific role, which adds to the credibility of her testimony. The sub-official recounted how the procedure for picking up the president was carried out, describing the environment of the condominium and the exact moment Boluarte approached the vehicle. Ligarda mentioned that the president arrived accompanied by a person whose identity she could not confirm. This lack of details about the companion has further fueled speculation surrounding the visit and the implications it could have for the integrity of the head of state. During the process, the Prosecutor's Office presented a map of the Mikonos condominium so that Ligarda could pinpoint the exact location where the vehicle was parked to pick up Boluarte. However, the president's defense objected to this line of questioning, arguing that it was suggestive. This could impede the investigation, as objectivity is crucial for determining the facts clearly. The insistence on the precision of details also highlights the complexity of the case. The Prosecutor's Office is trying to establish a clear timeline of events and understand the circumstances surrounding the visit, which is fundamental not only for the investigation but also for public trust in Boluarte's leadership. As more questions arise about Ligarda's role and the context of her statement, public opinion is closely watching the repercussions this may have on the president's administration. Ligarda's appointment to the embassy in Spain has been interpreted by some as an attempt to evade the pressure of the investigation, adding a layer of intrigue to the issue. Meanwhile, President Boluarte's approval rating is at critical levels, with only 3% support in polls, highlighting the political tension surrounding her mandate. With nine investigations open against her, the situation becomes even more complicated, and the revelation of these new elements could influence the political future of the president. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether Sub-official Ligarda's testimony will have a significant impact on the investigation. Citizens remain attentive to how this case will unfold, which is not only a reflection of the current political crisis but also an indicator of the fragility of trust in the country's institutions. Boluarte's administration faces a monumental challenge, and the resolution of this episode could be decisive for her future.