🔗 Share this article The Peruvian government to Declare National Emergency After Fatal Demonstrations Targeting New President Peru is set to impose emergency measures after one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in massive demonstrations targeting President José JerÃ, who assumed power just days ago. Government Response The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima within hours 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 – represented the most recent in ongoing protests against corruption and rising crime, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration. Demonstration Developments 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. "All must leave!" protesters chanted upon arriving at the legislature and attempted to breach security barricades protecting the building. Casualties and Investigation Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, lost his life in the demonstration and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. The nation's judicial authorities confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Official Statements The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality 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 said. Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters. Proposed Reforms Jerà said one focus would be prison reform, though specific authority details remained unspecified. Recently installed security chief 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 how JerÃ's nascent presidency – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – might develop. JerÃ, 38 has promised to make crime his top priority but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and previously examined misconduct claims. The president refuted all allegations 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, registering minimal public support before removal. Congress – which was headed by Jerà before he became president is almost equally unpopular, with a single-digit approval rating.