Peru president issues amnesty for hundreds accused of atrocities

Hundreds accused of atrocities in Peru will have charges dropped under a presidential amnesty

President Gustavo Petro announced on Tuesday that hundreds of people currently facing prosecution for alleged crimes will be granted amnesty.

The crimes in question took place during the decades-long internal conflict that lasted until the 2000s. The amnesty applies to those accused of offenses perpetrated during the violence, including political crimes, armed rebellion, kidnapping, and murder.

The decision has sparked controversy and outcry from victims' groups and human rights organizations, with critics arguing that it will undo years of work to bring justice and healing to those impacted by the atrocities.

This latest move comes after President Petro rolled back a 2016 peace deal between the government and FARC rebels, citing that it did not do enough to address the needs of victims.