I have strongly rejected the proposal to pardon and transfer her to the United States. I do not have the legal power to pardon terrorists and even if I did, I would not use it.

Alberto Fujimori’s quote reflects his firm stance on legal authority and his refusal to pardon individuals he considers to be terrorists. He addresses a proposal to pardon and transfer a person, likely a terrorist or someone accused of terrorism, to the United States. Fujimori stresses that he does not have the legal power to grant such a pardon, reinforcing the importance of legal limits on presidential powers. Furthermore, even if he had the legal authority, he makes it clear that he would not use it, implying that terrorism should not be excused or overlooked for political reasons.

The quote emphasizes accountability and the principle that certain crimes, such as terrorism, are too grave to be pardoned, regardless of any political or diplomatic considerations. Fujimori’s statement aligns with his broader view on the justice system, where the rule of law should not be compromised, especially in cases involving national security and terrorist activities. He is rejecting any notion that the legal system can be manipulated for political or diplomatic gain.

Fujimori’s remark also highlights the tension between legal power and moral responsibility. While the president may have the formal power to pardon individuals, he emphasizes that some acts are so severe that they should never be excused, no matter the circumstances. This reflects a broader argument in international law about how governments should deal with terrorism and violent extremism, and how the law should be applied equally, without exceptions for specific groups or individuals.

The origin of this quote comes from Alberto Fujimori, the former President of Peru, who was involved in a highly contentious and politically sensitive period during the 1990s when his government faced significant challenges from terrorist organizations such as the Shining Path and the MRTA (Túpac Amaru Revolutionary Movement). His stance on not granting pardons to terrorists reflects his government’s aggressive approach toward combating terrorism and ensuring that those who committed such acts were held accountable.