BTN News: In a controversial move, Peru’s Interior Minister, Juan José Santiváñez, has come under fire for allegedly threatening journalist Karla Ramírez following her investigation into his actions. The case has sparked widespread concern over freedom of the press, with both the National Association of Journalists of Peru (ANP) and the Institute of Press and Society (IPYS) condemning Santiváñez’s behavior. These organizations claim the minister’s aggressive stance represents a growing threat to journalistic independence in the country.
Journalist Faces Threats Over Social Media Post
On Wednesday, September 18, the ANP and IPYS issued a statement accusing Minister Juan José Santiváñez of sending threatening messages to Karla Ramírez, a journalist with Panamericana Televisión. The conflict arose after Ramírez shared a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) regarding a document submitted by Juan Burgos, the head of the Congressional Oversight Committee.
The document highlighted concerns about Santiváñez’s alleged behind-the-scenes dealings, particularly a claim that a woman named Rosa Medina had arranged a private meeting on the minister’s behalf. After Ramírez echoed this report on social media, Santiváñez reportedly contacted her directly, accusing her of defamation and demanding that she retract her statement.
“This Is Not Freedom; It’s a Crime” – Santiváñez’s Response
In his messages to Karla Ramírez, Santiváñez firmly rejected the journalist’s report, claiming she was “imputing [him] directly.” He called for “greater seriousness” in her journalism, stating that her post was “absolutely defamatory.” Despite Ramírez offering to present his side of the story, the minister’s tone remained combative. He responded by accusing her of not informing the public properly, concluding his message with a clear threat: “Lo suyo no es libertad, es delito” (“What you’re doing is not freedom; it’s a crime”).
The ANP and IPYS responded swiftly, calling Santiváñez’s actions a blatant attack on journalistic freedom. The organizations stressed that this is not the first time the minister has displayed hostility toward the press, especially against outlets that question or criticize his performance in office.
Santiváñez Under Scrutiny in Multiple Investigations
Minister Juan José Santiváñez is no stranger to controversy. His alleged involvement in several ongoing investigations has only added fuel to the fire. One key investigation focuses on his relationship with Junior Izquierdo, a police captain known as “Culebra,” who has reportedly submitted chats and audio recordings to the Attorney General’s office, potentially implicating Santiváñez in illegal activities.
In addition to this, Santiváñez has been accused of complicity in the escape of Vladimir Cerrón, the leader of the left-wing Perú Libre party. Cerrón has been on the run for more than 300 days, and media outlets have suggested that the minister may have played a role in facilitating his flight from justice. Santiváñez has denied these allegations and threatened legal action against any outlet that reports such claims.
Growing Criticism and Public Discontent
The public’s frustration with Minister Santiváñez is palpable. A recent survey conducted by the private firm Datum and published in El Comercio shows that 79% of Peruvians disapprove of President Dina Boluarte’s decision to keep Santiváñez in the role of Interior Minister.
This discontent comes amid broader concerns about the government’s treatment of the press. Journalists and media executives have frequently accused Santiváñez of an aggressive, antagonistic attitude toward the media, especially those that scrutinize his conduct. These accusations highlight a worrying trend of hostility toward the press, as reflected in the minister’s recent threats against Karla Ramírez.
Journalists’ Associations Call for Accountability
The ANP and IPYS have made it clear that they stand firmly behind Ramírez and other journalists who face intimidation for their work. In their statements, both organizations emphasized the importance of press freedom and criticized any efforts to suppress independent reporting. “Freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy,” the ANP wrote in its statement.
The IPYS also pointed out that this latest threat is part of a broader pattern of aggression by Santiváñez, reminding the public that the minister had previously threatened to sue anticorruption prosecutor Carlos Ordaya, who had linked him to another ongoing investigation involving Nicanor Boluarte, the brother of President Boluarte.
Government Accountability and Legal Consequences Looming
As investigations continue, the Ministry of the Interior remains under intense scrutiny. On its official X account, the Peruvian Attorney General’s office confirmed that its Equipo Especial de Fiscales contra la Corrupción del Poder (EFFICOP) has expanded its investigation into Juan José Santiváñez. He now faces possible charges for bribery, obstruction of justice, and influence peddling—allegations that could have significant legal consequences for the minister.
With public pressure mounting and investigative bodies closing in, it remains to be seen how long Santiváñez will hold onto his position as Interior Minister. For now, the case of Karla Ramírez serves as a chilling reminder of the challenges journalists face in upholding truth and accountability in Peru.
The Fight for Press Freedom in Peru
The ongoing feud between Santiváñez and the press highlights the delicate balance between government authority and the media’s role as a watchdog. As threats against journalists increase, both domestic and international observers have raised concerns about the future of press freedom in Peru. The Ramírez case has galvanized calls for stronger protections for journalists and clearer consequences for those who attempt to silence them through intimidation or legal threats.
Conclusion
Minister Juan José Santiváñez’s threats against journalist Karla Ramírez underscore a dangerous trend of hostility toward the media in Peru. As investigative reports continue to reveal deeper levels of political corruption, the need for an independent press is more critical than ever. With major journalist organizations and the public voicing their discontent, the coming months could bring significant legal and political fallout for the embattled minister.
