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Peru is set to declare a state of emergency after one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in massive demonstrations against the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.

Official Measures

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima imminently and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity.

Wednesday evening's demonstration – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – was the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.

Protest Dynamics

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.

"All must leave!" protesters chanted upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers protecting the building.

Casualties and Investigation

Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, 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.

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, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".

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, 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 – could play out.

The 38-year-old leader has promised to make crime his top priority but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.

Historical Precedent

Boluarte's government faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, resulting in multiple fatalities and a plunge in her popularity levels, which oscillated between 2% and 4% in the days leading up to her ouster.

Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.