🔗 Share this article Peru to Declare National Emergency After Deadly Demonstrations Targeting Recently Inaugurated Leader The nation will soon declare a state of emergency after at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests targeting President José JerÃ, inaugurated only a few days prior. Government Response Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima imminently and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns. Wednesday evening's demonstration – 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. Protest Dynamics Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects. "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 his death would be investigated, stated a human rights representative, from the national oversight institution. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot. Government Position The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality through social media channels, promising an impartial inquiry. 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 The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, though specific authority details remained unspecified. Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio informed legislators that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, adding that 89 police and 22 civilians had been injured during the protest and multiple individuals faced arrest. Governing Challenges Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how JerÃ's nascent presidency – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – could play out. 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. The president refuted all allegations and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation. Previous Administration Boluarte's government faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, leading to dozens of deaths and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal. Congress – which was headed by Jerà before he became president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.