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The nation will soon impose emergency measures following at least one person was killed and dozens of police officers were injured in massive demonstrations against the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.

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 – 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

Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Police fired teargas while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.

"Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted when they reached congress and tried to tear down metal barriers surrounding the structure.

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, 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, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. 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.

The newly appointed interior minister, Vicente Tiburcio informed legislators 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 how Jerí's nascent presidency – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – might develop.

Jerí, 38 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 pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Historical Precedent

Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, 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 is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.