The President of Peru confirms he will not resign amid intense pressure from the "Chifagate" scandal, in which he was revealed to have secretly met with a Chinese businessman. The opposition points to a lack of transparency, while prosecutors have launched an official investigation into the matter.
On 22 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Peruvian President José Heri addressed members of Congress, affirming he will not resign despite facing heavy pressure over secret meetings with a Chinese businessman. This controversy sparked a political scandal in Peruvian media dubbed “Chifagate,” with “Chifa” referring to the Peruvian-style Chinese restaurant where the meetings were arranged.
President Heri, who took office last October following the impeachment of former President Dina Boluarte, appeared before the parliamentary oversight committee to explain meetings with Chinese businessman Zhu Hua Yang on 26 December and 6 January. These meetings were not recorded in the president’s official schedule.
The Peruvian leader stated that calls for his removal are part of a scheme to create political instability and interfere in the ongoing election process. He added there are efforts underway whose backers must be uncovered through investigation, stressing the importance of transparency and public accountability.
However, the undisclosed details of these meetings have sparked widespread criticism. The opposition questions the transparency and potential corruption risks, while Peruvian prosecutors have officially initiated an investigation into the case.
Meanwhile, opposition legislators are advancing motions to impeach or express no confidence in 39-year-old President Heri, who is scheduled to remain in office until July amid a tense political climate and uncertainty ahead of the next elections.