The political criticism extends to business sectors and even to groups promoting capitalism and the far right, who see an opportunity to strengthen their positions in the massacre committed by armed illegal miners in the province of Pataz.

In a pre-election context, the Fuerza Popular party accused the government of keeping the military forces sent to that province to restore order, which had been undermined for years, in a passive and background role and announced that it will request that Congress impeach Defense Minister Walter Astudillo.

Regarding the issue, more than 20 members of Congress signed a motion of censure against Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzén, hoping to secure 33 votes for the motion to be debated in parliament. If approved, the motion will force the resignation of the impeached Prime Minister, along with the entire cabinet.

Adrianzén is the focus of criticism because, days before the massacre, when relatives were calling for a search for those kidnapped by illegal miners on April 25th, he questioned the veracity of the disappearance and said he had not received any complaints.

The motion against the Minister was signed by legislators from various political parties—left, center-right, and far-right—in this case, by retired Admiral Jorge Montoya, center-right Edward Málaga, and leftist Silvana Robles.

“What happened in Pataz is a tragedy that highlights the neglect, impunity, and lack of concrete action on security,” Montoya said.

“A president and her ministers who fail to act against violence cannot remain in office,” said Robles, adding that the massacre is the result of legal amendments favorable to crime enacted by Congress with the approval of the Executive Branch.

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