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The nation will soon declare a state of emergency after one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests against the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.

Government Response

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima within hours and crafting a comprehensive plan to tackle rising insecurity.

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, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.

Protest Dynamics

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures 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.

Casualties and Investigation

A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, lost his life in the demonstration and his death would be investigated, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Government Position

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality in a post on X, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. 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, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters.

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 told the unicameral congress that the government would push for comprehensive reform to the national police, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens 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.

The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and previously examined misconduct claims. The president refuted all allegations and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Historical Precedent

Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal.

Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.