Transport Minister resigns citing health, first cabinet exit of the Fujimori government

Transport and Communications Minister Rafael Rey resigned, citing health reasons that prevented him from continuing 'the responsibilities proper to the position with the dedication it requires' — the first departure from Keiko Fujimori's cabinet since it was sworn in July 28. Congressman Víctor Piñán suggested the real cause was linked to trains acquired during Rafael López Aliaga's tenure as Lima mayor. The resignation came days after Fujimori had publicly dismissed opposition-fueled 'speculation' about an imminent cabinet reshuffle, denying any changes were being evaluated 'for now.' President Fujimori swore in economist José Angello Tangherlini Casal, previously vice-minister of Family Agriculture Development, as the new Transport and Communications Minister the same day; his mandatory sworn declaration disclosed three active fiscal investigations for alleged embezzlement of funds (malversación) and official extortion (concusión) from his time at Agro Rural, none yet closed, dismissed or resolved.