🔗 Share this article Peru Plans to Announce National Emergency After Fatal Demonstrations Targeting Recently Inaugurated Leader The nation will soon declare a state of emergency after one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago. Government Response Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that the government would declare emergency protocols for the capital imminently 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 – was the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday. 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. "All must leave!" protesters chanted upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers protecting the building. 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 confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Official Statements 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, 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, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail. The newly appointed interior minister, Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that the government would push for comprehensive reform to the national police, adding that 89 police and 22 civilians had been injured during the protest and 11 people were detained. Governing Challenges The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for how Jerí's nascent presidency – 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 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, resulting in multiple fatalities and a plunge in her popularity levels, 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.