🔗 Share this article The Peruvian government to Declare State of Emergency Following Fatal Demonstrations Targeting New President Peru is set to impose emergency measures following at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago. Official Measures Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima imminently 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 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 upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers protecting the building. Victims and Inquiry A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, said Fernando Losada, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. The nation's judicial authorities said Ruiz died after being shot. Official Statements Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death in a post on X, 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". Planned Changes Jerí said one focus would be prison reform, 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, adding that 89 police and 22 civilians had been injured during the protest and 11 people were detained. Governing Challenges The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for how Jerí's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out. Jerí, 38 has promised to make crime his top priority but has faced a number of scandals, 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. Historical Precedent The previous administration faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, resulting in multiple fatalities 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 is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.