🔗 Share this article The Peruvian government to Declare State of Emergency Following Deadly 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 widespread protests targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago. Government Response The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima imminently and crafting a comprehensive plan to tackle rising insecurity. Wednesday evening's demonstration – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – 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. Protest Dynamics 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!" demonstrators shouted when they reached congress and tried to tear down metal barriers surrounding the structure. Victims and Inquiry Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, said Fernando Losada, from the national oversight institution. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot. Official Statements The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality in a post on X, 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 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 JerÃ's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop. JerÃ, 38 has promised to make crime his top priority but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerà 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 catastrophic approval rating decline, 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.