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Peru is set to impose emergency measures after one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.

Government Response

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima imminently and is preparing a package of measures 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, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.

Demonstration Developments

Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. 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 surrounding the structure.

Casualties and Investigation

Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, lost his life in the demonstration and his death would be investigated, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot.

Government Position

Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death 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 said.

Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".

Proposed Reforms

The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, though specific authority details remained unspecified.

Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio informed legislators 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 how Jerí's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out.

The 38-year-old leader has promised to make crime his top priority but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.

Historical Precedent

The previous administration 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 is almost equally unpopular, with a single-digit approval rating.