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The nation will soon impose emergency measures following one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in massive demonstrations targeting President José Jerí, who assumed power just days ago.

Government Response

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima within hours and is preparing a package of measures to address escalating safety concerns.

Wednesday evening's demonstration – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – represented the most recent in ongoing protests targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.

Protest Dynamics

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, 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 upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers surrounding the structure.

Victims and Inquiry

Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, lost his life in the demonstration and his death would be investigated, stated a human rights representative, 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 blamed violence on "delinquents who infiltrated a peaceful demonstration to sow chaos".

"Legal consequences will be severe," he affirmed.

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

Planned Changes

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

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how Jerí's nascent presidency – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – might develop.

The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety 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.

Previous Administration

Boluarte's government faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and catastrophic approval rating decline, which oscillated between 2% and 4% in the days leading up to her ouster.

The legislative body previously led by the current president is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.