Peru’s PM denies promoting shutdown of Congress

Peru's Prime Minister, Anibal Torres, testified Thursday before Congress over alleged statements in which he encouraged social organizations to shut down Congress.

For some members of Congress, the prime minister committed a constitutional offence when he allegedly promoted the closing of Congress during a meeting with trade unionists.

Congressman Jose Cueto, member of the Renovacion Popular party, accused Torres of manipulating public opinion. Meanwhile hundreds of people marched against Congress, which had strongly opposed President Pedro Castillo's government.

According to a June national survey by the Institute of Peruvian Studies, Congress was 85% unpopular among respondents, while only 12% approved and 3% were undecided.