Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Peru's President Faces Standoff With Congress

by VOA News

   Peru's president wants the opposition-dominated Congress to hold a
   special session this week to debate his proposed anti-corruption
   measures.

   President Martin Vizcarra made the announcement Sunday night in a
   televised speech, calling on Peru's Congress to give his Cabinet a vote
   of confidence.

   If the lawmakers instead give a no-confidence vote, Vizcarra will then
   be empowered by Peru's constitution to dissolve Congress.

   Analysts say, however, the lawmakers may rally behind the president's
   proposal, following the emergence of several videos showing judges
   negotiating bribes with politicians to settle cases.

   Vizcarra took office in March after Pedro Pablo Kuczynski resigned amid
   a graft scandal.