Economy Minister after Keiko Fujimori's reprimand: "I offer my sincerest apologies (to the victims); it was an unfortunate remark"

Economy and Finance Minister Elmer Cuba issued a public apology on Monday regarding comments he made about recent flooding in southern Lima. The minister characterized his previous remarks, which were perceived as minimizing the impact of the disaster, as an "unhappy expression" and apologized to those who felt offended by his statements.

The controversy arose after the minister suggested that victims should not exaggerate the situation, specifically referring to the water levels as "a little water up to the knee." These comments drew significant criticism following reports that the unusual rainfall left at least 298 people affected, causing widespread flooding and structural collapses in the region. The apology followed public pressure, including a reprimand from political leader Keiko Fujimori.