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Peru is set to declare a state of emergency after one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in massive demonstrations targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.

Official Measures

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that authorities would enact 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 – was the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime, 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. Police fired teargas while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices.

"Everyone must go!" protesters chanted when they reached congress 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. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot.

Official Statements

Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death 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

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 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 11 people were detained.

Political Context

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop.

The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but encountered multiple controversies, involving graft accusations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. The president refuted all allegations and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Previous Administration

Boluarte's government faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal.

Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president faces comparable public disapproval, with a single-digit approval rating.