Peru: Kuczynski’s Resignation Accepted As Martin Vizcarra Sworn In

Kuczynski translated message reads: “Unacceptable is the proposed legislative resolution of Congress which seeks to present a waiver as a vacancy. If it remains that way, I’ll withdraw my (resignation) letter and submit myself to a proper impeachment process where I can exercise my defense.”

If this option was pursued, he said he would withdraw his resignation letter and “submit to the regular vacancy procedure where I exercise my right of defense.” Kuczynski, a former Wall Street banker, resigned Wednesday after accumulating multiple accusations of corruption. Reuters reported that it was unclear if Kuczynski could legally withdraw his resignation.

Vizcarra, sworn in at around midday Friday, called for “faith and optimism” when he arrived in the country Thursday: “Peru can always overcome.” However, left-wing political movement New Peru and half of Peru’s voters believe Vizcarra should call for new elections instead of governing until 2021.

New Peru leader Veronika Mendoza believes Vizcarra should promote constitutional reform and call general elections at the earliest opportunity: “When we talk about new elections, we are talking about elections with new rules to ensure that those who led us to this crisis don’t come back.”

New Peru has widespread public support: a recent poll by GFK shows that 49 percent of Peruvians believe Kuczynski‘s two vice presidents should resign and that Congressional President Luis Galarreta should call new elections.