🔗 Share this article Peru Plans to Announce State of Emergency After Deadly Demonstrations Against Recently Inaugurated Leader The nation will soon impose emergency measures following at least one person was killed and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests against President José Jerí, inaugurated only a few days prior. Official Measures Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima 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 against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday. Protest Dynamics Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Police fired teargas while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects. "All must leave!" protesters chanted when they reached congress 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, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. The nation's judicial authorities said Ruiz died after being shot. 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, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters. Planned Changes Jerí said one focus would be prison reform, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail. Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio informed legislators that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and multiple individuals faced arrest. Political Context 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 has promised to make crime his top priority but encountered multiple controversies, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation. Historical Precedent The previous administration encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, leading to dozens of deaths and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal. Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.