The Peruvian government to Declare State of Emergency After Deadly Demonstrations Against New President

The nation will soon declare a state of emergency following one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in massive demonstrations against President José Jerí, who assumed power just days ago.

Official Measures

The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact 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 – represented the most recent in ongoing protests against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.

Demonstration Developments

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Police fired teargas while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.

"Everyone must go!" protesters chanted upon arriving at the legislature and attempted to breach security barricades surrounding the structure.

Casualties and Investigation

A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, said Fernando Losada, 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, 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, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".

Planned Changes

Jerí said one focus would be prison reform, though specific authority details remained unspecified.

The newly appointed interior minister, Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress 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 the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out.

Jerí, 38 committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Previous Administration

Boluarte's government faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, resulting in multiple fatalities and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal.

The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, with a single-digit approval rating.