Violent Protests in Peru: One Dead, Over 100 Injured Amid Calls for New Government's Dismissal

In a wave of youth-led protests across Peru, one person has died and more than a hundred have been injured. The violent clashes, fueled by public anger over rising crime and political corruption, have led to calls for the newly installed government's dismissal.

Background

Peru has been in turmoil following the impeachment of President Dina Boluarte last week, leading to the appointment of congressional chief José Jerí as her interim replacement. Jerí, who unveiled his cabinet only a day before the protests, has faced immediate backlash from the public, with thousands taking to the streets in cities like Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, and Puno to demand his removal (Le Monde, RT).

The Protests

The demonstrations, largely led by Generation Z protesters and labor unions, escalated into violence on Wednesday night when riot police intervened as protesters attempted to tear down security barriers outside Congress (RT, BBC News). Protesters reportedly threw stones, Molotov cocktails, and fireworks at the police, leading to clashes that resulted in one death and over 100 injuries (RT, Folha de S.Paulo). Among those injured were 80 police officers and 10 journalists, according to authorities (The Hindu).

The protester who died, a 32-year-old rapper, was fatally injured during the clashes (Le Monde). The police have since acknowledged that one of their shots killed the protester (Le Monde).

Reaction and Implications

Amid the violence, interim President José Jerí has refused to resign (The Hindu). Instead, Prime Minister Ernesto Alvarez announced late on Thursday that the government would declare a state of emergency in Lima within hours, and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity (The Guardian).

This decision comes as Jerí faces criticism for failing to form a full cabinet, a delay that has led to uncertainty and concerns about governability (Clarin). The protests, driven by frustration over the 'mafia pact' that is seen to be corroding politics in Peru, have further underscored his lack of support (Le Monde).

Current Status

The tension in Peru continues as the state of emergency is set to be declared in the capital Lima and potentially other areas, and as weeks of demonstrations have turned deadly (Deutsche Welle). Amid calls for his resignation, Jerí's position remains precarious, and the situation in Peru remains volatile as the youth-led protests continue to demand systemic political changes and a stronger response to the surge in crime.