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The nation will soon impose emergency measures following one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in massive demonstrations targeting the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.

Government Response

The nation's premier said late on Thursday that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima within hours and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns.

The protest on Wednesday night – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – represented the most recent in ongoing protests against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.

Protest Dynamics

Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. 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 protecting the building.

Victims and Inquiry

Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, lost his life in the demonstration and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, said Fernando Losada, from the national oversight institution. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Government Position

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality through social media channels, promising an impartial inquiry. He attributed the unrest to "criminal elements exploiting peaceful protests".

"Legal consequences will be severe," he affirmed.

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

Proposed Reforms

Jerí said one focus would be prison reform, though specific authority details remained unspecified.

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.

Governing Challenges

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop.

Jerí, 38 committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Previous Administration

Boluarte's government faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, 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, with a single-digit approval rating.