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Peru is set to declare a state of emergency after at least one person was killed 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 emergency protocols for the capital within hours and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity.

The protest on Wednesday night – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – was the latest in a series of demonstrations targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.

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.

"Everyone must go!" 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, 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. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Government Position

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality 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 said.

After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters.

Planned Changes

The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, 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.

Jerí, 38 committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. The president refuted all allegations and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Historical Precedent

Boluarte's government faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, 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.