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The nation will soon impose emergency measures after one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in massive demonstrations targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.

Government Response

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez said late on Thursday that authorities would enact emergency protocols for the capital imminently and is preparing a package of measures to address escalating safety concerns.

Wednesday evening's demonstration – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – was the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.

Demonstration Developments

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices.

"Everyone must go!" demonstrators shouted upon arriving at the legislature and attempted to breach security barricades surrounding the structure.

Casualties and Investigation

A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, was killed during the protest 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.

Official Statements

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

"The full force of the law will be on them," he affirmed.

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

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 informed legislators that the government would push for comprehensive reform to the national police, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and multiple individuals faced arrest.

Political Context

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how Jerí's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop.

The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but encountered multiple controversies, including corruption allegations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.

Previous Administration

The previous administration encountered mass demonstrations after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, which oscillated between 2% and 4% in the days leading up to her ouster.

The legislative body previously led by the current president is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.