Peruvian President José María Balcázar stated in a live radio interview on Friday that he was unaware of the ongoing emergency in the Arequipa region, despite reports of four deaths and widespread damage caused by recent heavy rains and flooding. The admission, made during an interview with Radio Yaraví, sparked immediate criticism and questions about the government’s responsiveness to the crisis.
“I just found out,” Balcázar responded when asked about the situation in Arequipa, according to reporting from Infobae. He indicated that he would discuss the matter further after receiving information from journalists during the interview. He as well stated that no local authorities had contacted him to request assistance.
The Arequipa region has been grappling with severe weather conditions, resulting in the deaths of a father and son, Alexandro Ordóñez Anaya (41) and J. O. G. (15), who were swept away by a flash flood in the Cayma district, Infobae reported. The total death toll from the recent rains in the region has reached four.
The president’s comments drew a sharp reaction from the journalist conducting the interview, who expressed surprise on air, stating, “You’re finding out right now on Radio Yaraví. My God!”
Balcázar subsequently announced that his administration would issue a state of emergency declaration for Arequipa, acknowledging that “natural phenomena cannot be controlled,” according to Exitosanoticias. However, the initial lack of awareness raised concerns about the government’s preparedness for the arrival of El Niño Costero, a climate pattern expected to bring further rainfall and potential disasters to the region.
The incident has prompted criticism from opposition figures and citizens alike, with some accusing the president of being detached from the realities faced by communities across the country. ATV reported that Balcázar’s statements have “indignado a todos” (indignated everyone).
As of Saturday, the government had not released a detailed plan of action to address the immediate needs of those affected in Arequipa, nor had it provided a comprehensive assessment of the damage. The president committed to follow-up discussions after meetings, but the extent of the government’s response remains unclear.
