MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

President Vizcarra announces political reforms in Peru after Sunday's referendum

President Vizcarra said he listened to what the people voted for in Sunday's referendum and is now taking the next step.

Peruvian President Martín Vizcarra Wednesday announced a set of political reforms after most of his proposals drew overwhelming support in last Sunday's referendum.

In a broadcast message, Vizcarra announced he will create a high-level commission for political reforms that will deal with the issues of parliamentary immunity and preferential voting, among others.

Parliamentary immunity is questioned due to the protection it grants legislators from prosecution and even sentences for acts committed prior to their election into Congress.

Other reforms boosted by the referendum include the creation of a new body that will appoint judges and prosecutors, the ban on the re-election of legislators and tougher control of political party finances.

“But this is not enough to recover the full legitimacy of our institutions. We have to take the next step,” said the president.

He added that the commission will be made up of “outstanding and honest leaders and professionals willing to work in a disinterested way for our country.”

Vizcarra called for a meeting with the heads of Congress, of the Judiciary and of the Constitutional Court to coordinate the execution of the reforms and announced he would also hold talks with political party leaders.

“Peruvians have voted for change and progress, and against corruption and impunity,” explained Vizcarra, who added that it is time to “listen to citizens and to interpret this message with humility and rationality.”