🔗 Share this article Peru Plans to Announce National 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 widespread protests targeting the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior. Government Response Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that authorities would enact emergency protocols for the capital imminently and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns. Wednesday evening's demonstration – 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. Police fired teargas while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices. "Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted when they reached congress and attempted to breach security barricades protecting the building. Victims and Inquiry A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, lost his life in the demonstration 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. Government Position The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality 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. Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters. Planned Changes Jerà said one focus would be prison reform, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail. Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and 11 people were detained. Political Context The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for how JerÃ's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out. The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. The president refuted all allegations and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation. Previous Administration Boluarte's government faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, leading to dozens of deaths and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal. The legislative body previously led by the current president is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.