🔗 Share this article The Peruvian government to Declare State of Emergency After Fatal Protests Targeting Recently Inaugurated Leader The nation will soon declare a state of emergency following at least one person was killed and dozens of police officers were injured in massive demonstrations against President José JerÃ, who assumed power just days ago. Official Measures Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact emergency protocols for the capital within hours and is preparing a package of measures to address escalating safety concerns. Wednesday evening's demonstration – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – 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. Demonstration Developments 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 surrounding the structure. 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, from the national oversight institution. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot. Government Position Jerà expressed regret over Ruiz's death through social media channels, 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, Jerà said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues". Proposed Reforms The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, though specific authority details remained unspecified. The newly appointed interior minister, Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress 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 multiple individuals faced arrest. Political Context Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for the new administration's trajectory – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – might develop. The 38-year-old leader has promised to make crime his top priority but encountered multiple controversies, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. The president refuted all allegations and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation. Historical Precedent Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, resulting in multiple fatalities and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal. Congress – which was headed by Jerà before he became president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.