The Peruvian government to Declare National Emergency After Deadly Protests Against New President
Peru is set to impose emergency measures following at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests against the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.
Government Response
Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that authorities would enact emergency protocols for the capital imminently and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns.
Wednesday evening's demonstration – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – was the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.
Protest Dynamics
Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.
"Everyone must go!" protesters chanted when they reached congress and attempted to breach security barricades protecting the building.
Casualties and Investigation
A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, lost his life in the demonstration and his death would be investigated, said Fernando Losada, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
Government Position
The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality in a post on X, promising an impartial inquiry. He blamed violence on "delinquents who infiltrated a peaceful demonstration to sow chaos".
"Legal consequences will be severe," he said.
After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, Jerà said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".
Proposed Reforms
Jerà said one focus would be prison reform, though specific authority details remained unspecified.
The newly appointed interior minister, Vicente Tiburcio informed legislators that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, adding that 89 police and 22 civilians had been injured during the protest and 11 people were detained.
Governing Challenges
The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for the new administration's trajectory – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – could play out.
The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. Jerà has denied wrongdoing in both cases and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.
Previous Administration
Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, leading to dozens of deaths and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal.
The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.
