🔗 Share this article

The nation will soon declare a state of emergency following one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in massive demonstrations targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.

Government Response

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima within hours and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity.

The protest on Wednesday night – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – represented the most recent in ongoing protests targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.

Demonstration Developments

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.

"Everyone must go!" protesters chanted when they reached congress and attempted to breach security barricades surrounding the structure.

Casualties and Investigation

Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. The nation's judicial authorities said Ruiz died after being shot.

Government Position

Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death in a post on X, 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 said.

Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters.

Proposed Reforms

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

The newly appointed interior minister, 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.

Governing Challenges

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how Jerí's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop.

The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.

Historical Precedent

The previous administration faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, 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.

Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.