Concern in Congress over removal of fences in front of the Legislative Palace and appointment of new comptroller general

The President of Congress, Alejandro Soto Reyes, has expressed his dissatisfaction and concern over the removal of the fences located on Av. Abancay, in front of the Legislative Palace, by the National Police of Peru, without prior coordination. This action, which restricted pedestrian access to the area, has sparked a debate on security around the Parliament and the proper protection of congressmen, congressional staff, and the National Parliament facilities. In a statement issued during the Permanent Commission session, Soto Reyes stated that the removal of the fences was carried out without coordination and emphasized the importance of ensuring security in the current political situation and potential public order protests. He also announced that he has instructed the Chief Officer of Congress to send a letter to the General Commander of the PNP regarding this issue. In response to this situation, the representative of the Honor and Democracy caucus, José Cueto, mentioned that although there is police presence guarding the Parliament, the fences that previously delimited the perimeter were not observed. Soto Reyes reiterated his concern and questioned the lack of coordination in the decision to remove them, suggesting that this action could compromise the safety of those working in Congress. The President of Congress also raised a reflection by comparing the situation with security at the Government Palace, questioning if the same measures have been implemented there. This comparison highlights the importance of ensuring the protection of public institutions in a context of potential tensions and protests that may affect the normal conduct of parliamentary activities. In another context, the Permanent Commission of Congress approved the appointment of César Aguilar Surichaqui as the new Comptroller General, amid a process marked by tensions between the government and the current head of the Comptroller's Office, Nelson Shack. This decision, made in a closed-door session without access to the press, underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in public management. The debate on security around Congress and the appointment of key authorities in overseeing and auditing public spending are issues of concern that require detailed analysis in the current political and social context of the country. Coordination among the institutions responsible for ensuring the security and protection of public institutions is essential to guarantee the smooth functioning of democracy and the rule of law. In this sense, it is necessary for the competent authorities to review and improve security protocols around Congress, considering the potential threats and risks faced by legislators and parliamentary staff. Furthermore, the appointment of key positions, such as the Comptroller General, should be carried out transparently and with the participation of all stakeholders, aiming to strengthen institutional integrity and the fight against corruption in the country.