Peru in turmoil: One killed, dozens hurt in protests against new president

At least one person was killed and dozens of police officers injured in widespread protests across Peru overnight, as citizens voiced anger at President José Jeri, who assumed office just days ago, the state ombudsman’s office said on October 16.

The unrest, which took place on October 15, drew young Gen Z protesters, transport workers, and civil society groups, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

It marked the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime that ultimately led to the dramatic midnight removal of former President Dina Boluarte on October 9.

Thousands of demonstrators gathered nationwide, with hundreds clashing with police outside Congress in Lima. Security forces fired tear gas, while some protesters threw fireworks, rocks, and burning debris. Protesters chanted “Everyone must go!” as they reached Congress and attempted to tear down metal barriers, triggering violent confrontations.

The Ombudsman’s Office confirmed that 32-year-old Fernando Losada was killed during the protests. Peru’s prosecutor said Losada had been shot, though it did not specify who fired the fatal shot. President Jeri expressed regret over the death on X, promising that it would be “objectively” investigated.

Jeri reported that 55 police officers and 20 civilians were injured, blaming “delinquents who infiltrated a peaceful demonstration to sow chaos” and warning that the “full force of the law will be on them.”

The protests offer an early glimpse into the challenges facing Jeri’s short-lived presidency, which will conclude next July with scheduled elections. The 38-year-old leader has vowed to prioritise tackling crime but has himself been embroiled in controversies, including corruption allegations and a shelved sexual assault investigation. Jeri has denied any wrongdoing and pledged full cooperation with any inquiries.

Boluarte faced widespread unrest following her rise to power in late 2022, which left dozens dead and her approval rating sinking to between 2% and 4% before her ouster. Public confidence in Congress, which Jeri previously chaired, remains similarly low, with single-digit approval ratings.

By Aghakazim Guliyev