🔗 Share this article Peru Plans to Announce National Emergency After Fatal Protests Against Recently Inaugurated Leader The nation will soon declare a state of emergency following at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in massive demonstrations targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago. Official Measures Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima within hours and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns. 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. Protest Dynamics Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices. "Everyone must go!" protesters chanted when they reached congress and attempted to breach security barricades 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. The nation's judicial authorities confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Official Statements The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality through social media channels, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. He blamed violence on "delinquents who infiltrated a peaceful demonstration to sow chaos". "Legal consequences will be severe," he said. Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters. Planned Changes The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, 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, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and multiple individuals faced arrest. Governing Challenges The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for how Jerí's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop. The 38-year-old leader 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. Historical Precedent Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, resulting in multiple fatalities and catastrophic approval rating decline, 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.