Boluarte reaffirms commitment not to privatize water and promises improvements to the service.

In a message to the nation on the occasion of the National Holidays, President Dina Boluarte reaffirmed her commitment not to privatize the drinking water service during her term. In a context where uncertainty about access to water has become a crucial issue for many Peruvian families, the president sought to reassure the population at a time when concerns about rising rates and the quality of service are palpable, especially among the most vulnerable sectors. Boluarte, visibly committed to this cause, declared: "Water will not be privatized." This statement aims to dispel the fears of millions of Peruvians who see privatization as a threat to their right to an essential resource. The president also highlighted that her administration aims to improve efficiency and equity in the distribution of water, a promise that, if realized, could transform the reality of many citizens who still lack regular access to this vital service. During her address, the president not only focused her message on the opposition to privatization but also thanked Congress for the recent approval of the Universal Access to Drinking Water Law. This legislation becomes a fundamental pillar for addressing the needs of the most disadvantaged families, who today face serious difficulties in accessing drinking water. The law proposes concrete measures, such as the installation of unconventional systems that include portable water treatment plants and public fountains. These initiatives, expected to begin implementation in the last quarter of 2024, are seen as necessary steps to close the social gaps that have perpetuated inequality in access to basic services in the country. Boluarte emphasized that water is "a fundamental right of every human being," a statement that underscores the need to guarantee this resource not only as a commodity but as an inherent right for all citizens. This focus on human dignity is crucial, especially in a country where lack of access to drinking water remains a challenge for many communities. However, the president's statement has not been without criticism. Some opposition sectors have questioned the viability of her promises, suggesting that words must be accompanied by concrete actions and that the path to improving water service requires significant investment and a change in existing management. Doubts about the government's ability to implement these reforms in a context of economic crisis and political polarization are legitimate. Moreover, public opinion remains attentive to how the initiatives outlined in the Universal Access Law will be executed. The successful implementation of these measures will largely depend on coordination between the central government and local governments, as well as the availability of resources, both financial and human. As the country moves towards closing gaps in access to water, the pressure on the government to act will intensify. The population not only expects the promises made during the presidential address to be fulfilled but also seeks equitable and sustainable access to such a vital resource as water. In summary, Dina Boluarte's message resonates in a context of expectation and hope, but also skepticism. Only time will tell if the words will translate into tangible changes that benefit all Peruvians, especially those who have been overlooked by public policies for decades. The fight for access to drinking water in Peru continues, and the pressure on the government to fulfill its promises will be a central theme in the coming months.