🔗 Share this article

The nation will soon impose emergency measures following one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests against the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.

Government Response

The nation's premier said late on Thursday that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima within hours 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 – 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 significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures 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 protecting the building.

Victims and Inquiry

A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, lost his life in the demonstration and his death would be investigated, stated a human rights representative, from the national oversight institution. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot.

Official Statements

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality through social media channels, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. 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.

After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters.

Planned Changes

Jerí said one focus would be prison reform, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail.

Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and 11 people were detained.

Governing Challenges

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out.

The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and previously examined misconduct claims. The president refuted all allegations and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Previous Administration

The previous administration faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, resulting in multiple fatalities and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal.

Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president is almost equally unpopular, with a single-digit approval rating.