The nation will soon impose emergency measures following one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests targeting President José Jerí, who assumed power just days ago.
Government Response
The nation's premier said late on Thursday that the government would declare emergency protocols for the capital imminently and is preparing a package of measures to address escalating safety concerns.
The protest on Wednesday night – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – represented the most recent in ongoing protests 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. Police fired teargas while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.
"All must leave!" 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 authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
Official Statements
Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death in a post on X, 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
Jerí said one focus would be prison reform, though specific authority details remained unspecified.
The newly appointed interior minister, Vicente Tiburcio informed legislators that the government would push for comprehensive reform to the national police, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and multiple individuals faced arrest.
Governing Challenges
Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how Jerí's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop.
The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. The president refuted all allegations and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.
Previous Administration
Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal.
The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.
