Peru is set to declare a state of emergency following at least one person was killed and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests against the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.
Official Measures
Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima 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 – was the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.
Demonstration Developments
Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Police fired teargas while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices.
"Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted upon arriving at the legislature and attempted to breach security barricades protecting the building.
Victims and Inquiry
Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, was killed during the protest and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, stated a human rights representative, from the national oversight institution. The nation's judicial authorities confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
Government Position
Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death through social media channels, promising an impartial inquiry. He attributed the unrest to "criminal elements exploiting peaceful protests".
"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.
Proposed Reforms
The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, though specific authority details remained unspecified.
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 multiple individuals faced arrest.
Political Context
Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop.
Jerí, 38 has promised to make crime his top priority but encountered multiple controversies, involving graft accusations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.
Previous Administration
The previous administration encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, 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.
