Peru’s interim President José María Balcázar is facing scrutiny after reports emerged that he championed legislation benefiting his son. The controversy raises questions about potential conflicts of interest within the country’s highest offices.
According to a report released Sunday by Cuarto Poder, Balcázar pushed for the passage of a law while serving as head of the Parliament’s Education Commission. Law 3217-1 allowed for the exceptional appointment of professors at state universities, directly benefiting José Balcázar Quiroz, the president’s son.
Balcázar Quiroz was employed at the National University of Pedro Ruiz Gallo in Lambayeque, where the interim president also previously taught. The law, which had been stalled for two years, was prioritized by Balcázar and ultimately passed with his vote, according to the report.
The legislation authorized the appointment of contracted teachers as assistant and associate professors without a public competition. Critics argue the law undermines meritocracy in university teaching positions. Notably, Balcázar did not disclose the familial connection as required by the Parliamentary Code of Ethics.
The proposal, initially position forward in 2022 by members of the Peru Libre political group, had previously stalled under the leadership of legislator Gladys Echaíz, who believed rigorous competitions were essential for university positions. “It did not align with my view on university issues, where competence and knowledge should prevail, and that is only measured through rigorous competitions,” Echaíz stated.
However, the project gained momentum when Balcázar assumed the presidency of the Education Commission in 2023, ultimately leading to its approval. The law allowed teachers with temporary contracts to obtain permanent positions with minimal requirements.
Following the law’s approval, the Ministry of Economy and Finance transferred approximately four million soles to cover appointments at twelve public universities. The National University of Pedro Ruiz Gallo received the largest portion, 1.332.982 soles, where both the president and his son had been employed.
The relationship extended to Parliament as well. In September 2024, Balcázar nominated his son as a member of the Advisory Council of the Constitution and Regulations Committee, without disclosing their familial tie. This appointment was formalized and, as of today, the son remains a member of the Advisory Council for the 2025-2026 period, an organ capable of influencing constitutional reforms.
Neither the president nor his son responded to requests for comment from Cuarto Poder regarding the allegations.
