🔗 Share this article Peru to Declare State of Emergency Following Fatal 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 massive demonstrations targeting the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior. Official Measures 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 address escalating safety concerns. The protest on Wednesday night – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – represented the most recent in ongoing protests targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, 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. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects. "Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers protecting the building. Victims and Inquiry Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, lost his life in the demonstration and his death would be investigated, said Fernando Losada, from the national oversight institution. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds. 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". "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 The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail. The newly appointed interior minister, Vicente Tiburcio informed legislators that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and 11 people were detained. Governing Challenges Wednesday's protests were a bellwether 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. Previous Administration The previous administration encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, which oscillated between 2% and 4% in the days leading up to her ouster. The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.