JNJ expresses ‘concern’ at National Attorney’s criticism of ongoing investigation

National Council of Justice (JNJ) responded this Wednesday to questions from prosecutor Patricia Benavidez, who assured that the preliminary investigation launched against her was illegal and arbitrary. In this sense, the organization has confirmed that the investigations are fully consistent with its powers and responsibilities.

“We express our concern with the statements and assessments made by Dr. Benavidez. Peru defines itself as a constitutional and democratic state. It follows that the exercise of public authority by any official, without exception, is subject to restrictions and duties as established by the Constitution and laws,” the JNJ said in a statement.

JNJ explained that the purpose of the preliminary investigation is to determine the degree of probability or plausibility of the existence disciplinary offensetherefore, it makes it possible to establish whether there are grounds for initiating the relevant procedure.

“The JNJ is an autonomous constitutional body that operates independently and outside of political articulation. His commitment to fighting corruption has been clearly demonstrated,” he said.

The Autonomous Constitutional Body called on the highest organs of the judiciary to act prudently, prudently and in accordance with their investiture.

Criticism of Benavidez

National Prosecutor Patricia Benavidez assured that there were no violations against members of the Cuellos Blancos task force. In this sense, he explained that, from his point of view, the group had become stronger.

“In this regard, I want to declare to all citizens that the decision of the National Council of Justice is void, because, as I have repeatedly said – and there are technical reports – the special group of white-collar workers was not dismantled, but rather strengthened. So much so that in just six months listening to all audio recordings was completed, in six months something was done that had not been done in four years,” he added.

Owner public service mentioned that the decision National Council of Justice would have responded to the attacks he said he had received for “investigating political power.”

“This decision of the National Council of Justice represents the completion of the attacks that began after I made the decision to investigate political power, which are risks assessed by the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, which has provided me with a precautionary measure to ensure the performance of my function as the nation’s prosecutor. Opening an investigation that is clearly illegal can only be an act of intimidation and obstruction of my fiscal function,” he concluded.