The nation will soon declare a state of emergency after one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests targeting President José Jerí, who assumed power just days ago.
Official Measures
The nation's premier said late on Thursday that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima within hours and is preparing a package of measures to address escalating safety concerns.
Wednesday evening's demonstration – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – 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. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.
"All must leave!" demonstrators shouted when they reached congress and attempted to breach security barricades surrounding the structure.
Victims and Inquiry
A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, said Fernando Losada, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot.
Official Statements
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.
Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, 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.
The newly appointed interior minister, Vicente Tiburcio informed legislators that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and multiple individuals faced arrest.
Governing Challenges
The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out.
Jerí, 38 committed to prioritizing public safety but encountered multiple controversies, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. The president refuted all allegations and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.
Previous Administration
The previous administration faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, resulting in multiple fatalities and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal.
The legislative body previously led by the current president is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.
