The Peruvian government Plans to Announce State of Emergency Following Fatal Demonstrations Against New President
Peru is set to impose emergency measures following one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in massive demonstrations targeting the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.
Official Measures
Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that the government would declare emergency protocols for the capital within hours and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity.
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, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.
Demonstration Developments
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!" demonstrators shouted when they reached congress and tried to tear down metal barriers protecting the building.
Victims and Inquiry
A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, lost his life in the demonstration and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, 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
Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death through social media channels, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. He attributed the unrest to "criminal elements exploiting peaceful protests".
"The full force of the law will be on them," he affirmed.
After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".
Proposed Reforms
Jerí said one focus would be prison reform, though specific authority details remained unspecified.
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 11 people were detained.
Political Context
The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for how Jerí's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop.
Jerí, 38 has promised to make crime his top priority but encountered multiple controversies, including corruption allegations and previously examined misconduct claims. The president refuted all allegations and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.
Previous Administration
The previous administration encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, 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 is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.
