Corruption is eating away at our society: a problem that must be eradicated together.

Corruption is the cancer that gnaws at the core of our Peruvian society, undermining trust in institutions and harming the most vulnerable citizens. Recently, we have seen how some journalists have defended corrupt-tainted concession contracts, such as those granted by criminal organizations Odebrecht and OAS to the Metropolitan Municipality of Lima (MML). The confession of former mayor Susana Villarán about receiving money from these entities has highlighted the magnitude of the problem. In this context, it is concerning that certain media outlets prioritize the legal stability of corrupt companies over the well-being of the population. The staunch defense of contracts that harm the most needy citizens, such as the collection of abusive tolls, is unacceptable. Fortunately, the Constitutional Court has taken a step in the right direction by suspending the toll collection at Puente Piedra, protecting the fundamental rights of the most disadvantaged. Another example of the ravages of corruption in Peruvian society is the case of Line 2 of the Lima metro. The nearly decade-long delay in its construction has wreaked havoc on the local economy, leading to the bankruptcy of thousands of businesses and affecting the quality of life of the population in East Lima. It is unacceptable that projects of such magnitude are managed so negligently, harming the citizenry and enriching a few corrupt individuals. It is necessary to reflect on the role of certain journalists who seem to overlook the suffering of citizens in exchange for defending dark interests. The lack of objectivity and partiality in the coverage of news related to corruption are symptoms of a deeper problem in our society. It is essential for the press to fulfill its role as a watchdog of power and defender of citizen rights, instead of serving as a mouthpiece for the corrupt. The fight against corruption must be a national priority, a commitment of all sectors of society. Corrupt organizations continue to operate with impunity, shielded by a network of complicity that includes prosecutors, attorneys, jurists, and media outlets. The complacent gaze of certain journalists towards corruption only perpetuates this scourge, weakening the foundations of our democracy. It is time to demand transparency, accountability, and justice. Citizens deserve to live in a country where corruption is not the norm, where public resources are managed efficiently and invested in the well-being of all. It is the duty of the press to be a counterbalance to power, to thoroughly investigate corruption cases, and to denounce injustices, without fear or favoritism. Eradicating corruption at its roots is a monumental challenge, but it is an essential step if we want to build a fairer and more prosperous country for future generations. Corruption cannot be tolerated or justified, and it is the responsibility of everyone, including the media, to work together to combat it and regain trust in our institutions. It is time to end impunity and work united for a more transparent and ethical Peru.