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The nation will soon impose emergency measures after one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests against the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.

Government Response

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima imminently and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns.

The protest on Wednesday night – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – was the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.

Demonstration Developments

Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices.

"Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted upon arriving at the legislature and attempted to breach security barricades protecting the building.

Casualties and Investigation

A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, said Fernando Losada, from the national oversight institution. The nation's judicial authorities confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Government Position

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".

"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.

Proposed Reforms

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 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 multiple individuals faced arrest.

Governing Challenges

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how Jerí'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 has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations 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 encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, leading to dozens of deaths and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal.

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