The controversy surrounding Peruvian President Dina Boluarte has intensified following revelations about her rhinoplasty surgery in 2023. While Boluarte, 62, claims the procedure was essential for health reasons, critics argue that her handling of the situation raises serious questions about transparency and governance.

Boluarte faced prosecutors for four hours recently as part of an investigation into allegations of neglecting her duties. During her absence from June 29 to July 9, 2023, she failed to appoint a caretaker president or inform Congress, sparking accusations of abandoning her post. The president’s legal team maintains she remained conscious throughout the surgery and performed her duties virtually. Her lawyer argued that Boluarte had no legal obligation to notify Congress about the procedure, labelling the allegations baseless.

Further scrutiny emerged when it was revealed that Mario Cabani, the surgeon who performed the procedure, did not include Boluarte’s name in his receipts. This has raised doubts about the transparency of the transaction and whether the surgery was truly necessary. The absence of documentation from the surgeon has only fuelled speculation.

The case is part of a broader investigation into Boluarte’s presidency, marked by controversies since she assumed office in December 2022. Boluarte, who succeeded Pedro Castillo after his arrest, faces allegations of accepting luxury gifts and is being investigated for her handling of protests in 2022, during which over 50 people died. Her administration has struggled with widespread disapproval, with nearly 95% of Peruvians dissatisfied with her leadership.

Boluarte has dismissed the allegations as politically motivated and has offered to waive medical confidentiality to clear her name. Despite this, the investigations continue, and with Peru’s turbulent political history, the outcome remains uncertain. Critics argue that the scandal underscores the systemic instability plaguing the nation.