Peru’s Interior Minister, Victor Torres, abruptly stepped down on Monday following a weekend raid on President Dina Boluarte’s residence and office.
Torres cited personal reasons, mentioning “family and health issues” for his departure.
However, his resignation comes amidst a brewing political scandal.
President Boluarte is currently under investigation for alleged money laundering and illicit enrichment.
The investigation centers on the origin of at least three Rolex watches in the president’s possession.
Police and prosecutors conducted a raid over the weekend, searching for evidence to substantiate these claims.
This scandal has cast a shadow over Boluarte’s administration. Interestingly, the resignation of Interior Minister Torres coincided with previous announcements of a cabinet reshuffle.
Maria del Carmen Alva, the former president of Peru’s congress, had hinted at “several changes” planned for the ministerial positions, with Torres being a potential casualty.
Whether Torres’ resignation is a preemptive move or a consequence of the investigation remains unclear.