The College of Journalists of Peru (CPP), through its Junín–Huancavelica Regional Council, and the Federation of Journalists of Peru (FPP) They rejected the expressions of the presidential candidate of Renovación Popular, Rafael López Aliaga, who during a press conference in Huancayo described a journalist as a “spokesperson for crime,” after being consulted about a proposal for his government plan.
The incident occurred after López Aliaga announced at a rally that Lima would no longer be the capital of the country and that Junín would assume that role, without explaining the technical aspects of the initiative. At the press conference, a journalist asked about the viability of the announcement and about the criticism made on social networks by the fugitive Vladimir Cerrón.
According to union statements, the candidate avoided answering the substance of the query and chose to disqualify the communicator, an attitude that they consider a lack of respect for journalistic work and an attempt at intimidation.
The College of Journalists of Peru demanded respect for press freedom and recalled that critical questioning is an essential part of journalistic practice. Meanwhile, the Federation of Journalists of Peru condemned all forms of verbal harassment against journalists and warned that this type of expression contributes to a climate of intolerance and affects the citizen’s right to information.
Both unions urged political actors to maintain democratic and tolerant behavior towards the press, especially in the current electoral process.
