Peru Plans to Announce State of Emergency Following Fatal Demonstrations Against Recently Inaugurated Leader
Peru is set to impose emergency measures after one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests targeting the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.
Official Measures
Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that authorities would enact emergency protocols for the capital imminently 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 targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.
Demonstration Developments
Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.
"Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted when they reached congress and attempted to breach security barricades protecting the building.
Casualties and Investigation
A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, stated a human rights representative, from the national oversight institution. The nation's judicial authorities 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 affirmed.
After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".
Planned Changes
The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, 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 multiple individuals faced arrest.
Political Context
Wednesday's protests were a bellwether 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 faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, which oscillated between 2% and 4% in the days leading up to her ouster.
The legislative body previously led by the current president is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.