The Peruvian government Plans to Announce State of Emergency Following Deadly Protests Against New President
Peru is set to impose emergency measures after at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests against President José JerÃ, who assumed power just days ago.
Government Response
The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima within hours and is preparing a package of measures to address escalating safety concerns.
Wednesday evening's demonstration – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – was the latest in a series of demonstrations targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.
Protest Dynamics
Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Police fired teargas while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.
"Everyone must go!" protesters chanted when they reached congress and tried to tear down metal barriers surrounding the structure.
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. The nation's judicial authorities said Ruiz died after being shot.
Official Statements
Jerà expressed regret over Ruiz's death through social media channels, promising an impartial inquiry. He blamed violence on "delinquents who infiltrated a peaceful demonstration to sow chaos".
"The full force of the law will be on them," he said.
Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters.
Proposed Reforms
Jerà said one focus would be prison reform, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail.
Recently installed security chief 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 multiple individuals faced arrest.
Governing Challenges
The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for the new administration's trajectory – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – might develop.
The 38-year-old leader has promised to make crime his top priority but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and previously examined misconduct claims. The president refuted all allegations and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.
Previous Administration
Boluarte's government faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, resulting in multiple fatalities and a plunge in her popularity levels, which oscillated between 2% and 4% in the days leading up to her ouster.
The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.
