🔗 Share this article Peru to Declare National Emergency Following Deadly Protests Against Recently Inaugurated Leader Peru is set to impose emergency measures after at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in massive demonstrations targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago. Official Measures The nation's premier said late on Thursday that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima within hours and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity. The protest on Wednesday night – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – represented the most recent in ongoing protests against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday. Demonstration Developments Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Police fired teargas while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices. "All must leave!" protesters chanted upon arriving at the legislature and attempted to breach security barricades protecting the building. Casualties and Investigation Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, lost his life in the demonstration and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. The nation's judicial authorities confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Official Statements 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". "The full force of the law will be on them," he affirmed. 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, though specific authority details remained unspecified. The newly appointed interior minister, Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and 11 people were detained. Governing Challenges The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out. The 38-year-old leader 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 expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation. Historical Precedent The previous administration faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, resulting in multiple fatalities and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal. The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, with a single-digit approval rating.