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Peru is set to declare a state of emergency following one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests targeting President José Jerí, who assumed power just days ago.

Government Response

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima within hours and crafting a comprehensive plan to tackle rising insecurity.

The protest on Wednesday night – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – was the latest in a series of demonstrations 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 some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.

"Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers protecting the building.

Victims and Inquiry

Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, lost his life in the demonstration 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.

Government Position

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality through social media channels, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. He blamed violence on "delinquents who infiltrated a peaceful demonstration to sow chaos".

"Legal consequences will be severe," he affirmed.

Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".

Planned Changes

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 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 committed to prioritizing public safety but encountered multiple controversies, involving graft accusations and previously examined misconduct claims. 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, resulting in multiple fatalities 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.