Evidence Unveiled Against Congresswoman Francis Paredes
Recent investigations have unveiled a complex alleged corruption network purportedly led by Congresswoman Francis Paredes of the “We Can Peru” party. This operation, known as “Los Operadores del Oriente,” reportedly involved exchanging jobs in public and penal institutions for bribes, particularly in Ucayali, Peru.
The Genesis of the Allegations
The controversy traces back to a meeting held at the Government Palace on July 29, 2021, early in Pedro Castillo’s presidency. Representatives from a teaching bloc convened with government officials to negotiate a plan. This agreement allowed congressmen to secure control over decentralized public institutions in their regions in exchange for their support during potential censorship or impeachment processes. According to the Public Ministry, this meeting marked the inception of the criminal organization attributed to Paredes.
Congressional Background of Francis Paredes
Paredes, originally a teacher, entered Parliament representing the Peru Libre party before joining the teaching bloc and ultimately aligning with Podemos Perú. Despite being elected with just 3,400 votes, her term is now overshadowed by multiple legal challenges, including nine judicial raids and evidence from intercepted communications, compromised bank statements, and collaborators implicating her network.
Congresswoman Francis Paredes faces accusations for chats linked to a criminal organization and alleged irregular payments in EsSalud-Ucayali. (Fourth Estate)
Institutions Involved in the Alleged Scheme
The corruption network is believed to have targeted three key institutions in Pucallpa, Ucayali: the EsSalud Assistance Network, the National Penitentiary Institute (INPE) Eastern Regional Office, and the Decentralized Directorate of Culture. The operations aimed to appoint related officials, steer contracts, and siphon off illicit profits.
EsSalud Ucayali became the primary focus. The corruption scheme allegedly succeeded when Lucas Roa Borja was appointed head of the assistance network, enabling Paredes’ associates to manipulate contract assignments.
Financial Irregularities and Corruption
Investigations have revealed several controversial agreements. Notably, three contracts for air ambulance services were secured in December 2022, worth a staggering 20 million soles, with illicit earnings estimated at two million soles. Prosecutors described these illicit funds as “tithes.”
Additionally, businessman Jean Flores reportedly paid 70,000 soles for service contracts, of which Paredes was allegedly entitled to 20,000 soles.
Family Involvement in the Network
The depth of the alleged corruption reached family ties. Paredes’ sister, Rosa Paredes Castro, surfaced as an operator and recruiter for the network. Despite her limited qualifications, she sought a position at EsSalud Ucayali, raising substantial red flags.
A Broader Network of Corruption
The INPE case provided further insight into the operational methods of this corruption network. In mid-2021, Paredes allegedly facilitated the appointment of Edgar Rubén Vilcapaza Arias to a significant role within the INPE, exchanging 25,000 soles for his appointment.
Conclusion: Awaiting Resolution
The ongoing investigations have led the judiciary to authorize the lifting of confidentiality on communications and banking records, resulting in multiple raids across Ucayali and Lima. While Paredes has maintained her innocence, the extensive evidence against her suggests a deeply entrenched network of corruption. As the investigation progresses, it remains to be seen how these revelations will impact her political future and the broader landscape of Peruvian politics.