🔗 Share this article The Peruvian government to Declare National Emergency Following Deadly Protests Targeting New President The nation will soon declare a state of emergency following one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in massive demonstrations targeting the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior. Government Response Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that the government would declare emergency protocols for the capital within hours and crafting a comprehensive plan to tackle rising insecurity. The protest on Wednesday night – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – represented the most recent in ongoing protests against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday. Demonstration Developments Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Police fired teargas while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices. "All must leave!" protesters chanted when they reached congress and tried to tear down metal barriers surrounding the structure. Victims and Inquiry A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, was killed during the protest and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Government Position Jerà expressed regret over Ruiz's death 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 affirmed. After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters. Proposed Reforms Jerà said one focus would be prison reform, though specific authority details remained unspecified. Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that the government would push for comprehensive reform to the national police, adding that 89 police and 22 civilians had been injured during the protest and 11 people were detained. Political Context The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop. The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerà has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation. Previous Administration The previous administration encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, resulting in multiple fatalities and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal. The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.