"Expectations for the future of Petro-Perú amid crisis and government decisions"

The recent movements in the Peruvian government's cabinet have generated a climate of expectation regarding the management of Petro-Perú, the state oil company facing a crisis that threatens its viability. Despite anticipated changes in the command structure, ministers José Arista from the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) and Rómulo Mucho from the Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem) remain in their positions. This decision could have significant implications for the future of the company and its board, led by Oliver Stark. In a context where uncertainty prevails, Mucho stated that no immediate changes are expected in the Petro-Perú board and that solutions are being sought to maintain the company's operations. However, this scenario could change within hours, as President Dina Boluarte could make key decisions at the next Cabinet meeting. Mucho's comments suggest that the government is working towards a solution, although concrete details are yet to be defined. The Petro-Perú board had already warned of the possibility of a deep restructuring due to the critical financial situation it is facing. In a previous statement, three alternatives were proposed to the government: inject capital without organizational changes, accept bankruptcy, or opt for a restructuring that ensures credibility in management. This crossroads presents a challenge for the Executive, which must balance the urgency of a solution with the need to maintain political and economic stability. Erick García, former general director of Hydrocarbons at Minem, interpreted the decision to maintain the board as a positive step that respects the company's independence and corporate governance. This decision could be seen as an attempt to strengthen the confidence of bondholders and investors in Petro-Perú's future. However, García also emphasized the importance of a real restructuring, which could involve the entry of a private manager to guide the company's internal decisions. In this regard, Alfredo Thorne, former Minister of Economy, stressed that the continued support for Arista and Mucho could be interpreted as a bet on finding effective solutions for Petro-Perú. Although this does not guarantee the ratification of the current board, it does suggest that there will be no hasty changes in the company's direction. Thorne hinted that a new bailout could be on the horizon, especially if the board maintains its ultimatum stance. Meanwhile, Víctor Fuentes highlighted that the continuity of Arista and Mucho could indicate that the government's decisions aim to avoid a setback in institutional integrity. However, this scenario does not necessarily provide clarity about Petro-Perú's future. The lack of concrete decisions could continue to generate instability and concern in the country's energy sector. Aurelio Ochoa Alencastre, former president of Perupetro, described the situation of Petro-Perú as "nebulous," where President Boluarte has yet to make a definitive decision regarding the future of the board. The urgency to resolve this situation is palpable, as each passing day exacerbates the company's economic and financial crisis. Ochoa emphasized the need for the government to take decisive action as soon as possible to prevent the situation from becoming unsustainable. The tension surrounding Petro-Perú resonates not only in the economic sphere but also in the political arena, as the state company is a pillar of the national economy. The uncertainty about its future generates unease among citizens, who are waiting for clear answers and effective actions. Thus, the coming days will be crucial in determining the course of Petro-Perú and the role that Arista and Mucho will play in seeking solutions for one of the country's most important entities. Finally, time is running out for the government, which must act swiftly and decisively. The situation of Petro-Perú cannot remain in a state of limbo, and the decisions made in the coming hours will have repercussions not only for the company but for the Peruvian economy as a whole. Citizens and market players are eagerly awaiting a clear response from Boluarte's administration regarding the future of the state oil company and its board.