Peruvian president Boluarte faces backlash over secret surgery

President of Peru Dina Boluarte has found herself at the centre of controversy after confirming that she secretly underwent nose surgery. Former Prime Minister Alberto Otarola revealed that the procedure was aimed at improving her breathing.

Boluarte's absence from public life lasted 12 days. It sparked heated debates in parliament about a constitutional violation.

The procedure, which took place in the middle of last year, was the subject of media speculation but has only now been officially confirmed. Otarola explained before a congressional committee that the president was performing her duties virtually during her recovery.

To clarify what happened with the president, a special committee was formed in the local parliament. On Tuesday, former Prime Minister of Peru Alberto Otarola testified before it.

He confirmed the rumours about the surgery. "She told me she was going to get a rhinoplasty... a surgery on the nose," Otarola stated. He also added that the president underwent the procedure because of breathing problems.

However, the controversy arises from not informing Congress about her absence. This might be considered a constitutional violation.

Boluarte, who took office after Pedro Castillo's failed coup, is one of the least popular leaders in the world. Her presidency is negatively viewed by 94 per cent of citizens, according to a November survey, while only 3 per cent view it positively. This is the worst approval rating for a Peruvian president since 1980.

Additionally, she also faces trouble with the prosecutor's office. She is accused of being responsible for the deaths of dozens of people during protests against her government. Despite this, Boluarte does not intend to step down before the end of her term in 2026.