A retired army general and former Peruvian minister has been accused of murdering a journalist 26 years ago and could be facing a fail term, according to a prosecutor.
Daniel Urresti, a former army general, widely tipped as a possible presidential candidate, is accused of orchestrating the murder of Hugo Bustios, a journalist who had been investigating human rights abuses, during the country’s conflict involving leftist militant organisation Shining Path.
Two former soldiers were convicted of his murder and sentenced to 15 years in prison. One of them accused Mr Urresti of being involved in the killing.
Prosecutor Luis Landa said that as local army intelligence chief at the time, Mr Urresti bore responsibility for the killing. He is seeking 25-year prison term for Mr Urresti.
Mr Urresti meanwhile said the claims were politically motivated and denied involvement in the murder.
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