Perus Constitutional Court has ordered the immediate release of former President Alberto Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year sentence for crimes against humanity.The decision, crucially signed by half of the courts members, directs the National Penitentiary Institute and the Barbadillo prisons director to facilitate Fujimoris release.This move comes after a pivotal ruling on Fujimoris habeas corpus petition.Last Friday, Judge Vicente Fernndez of the First Preparatory Investigation Court of Ica denied Fujimoris release, citing a lack of jurisdiction.Subsequently, he returned all related documents to the Constitutional Court for appropriate legal action.
This step marked a significant turn in the cases proceedings.Despite the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR) previous order to halt such decisions, the Constitutional Court proceeded with Fujimoris release.The IACHR had called for justice for victims of the Barrios Altos and La Cantuta massacres.Unlocking Fujimori: A Historic Court Verdict in Peru.
(Photo Internet reproduction)In response, the Constitutional Court noted the IACHRs lack of direct authority in preventing the execution of its judicial decisions.Additionally, the judiciary annulled the pardon granted to Fujimori in 2017 by then-President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski in 2018.This followed the Inter-American Courts request to Peru to ensure justice for the victims involved.Furthermore, the IACHR recently requested a report from Peru by December 6, focusing on the Constitutional Courts decision from March 17, 2022.The IACHR had asked Peru not to implement the 2022 decision, which reinstated Fujimoris 2017 pardon.Fujimori, sentenced for his role in the Barrios Altos and La Cantuta cases, was serving his term in Limas Barbadillo prison.This latest court order marks a significant shift in Fujimoris legal journey, highlighting the complex interplay between national and international judicial decisions.