🔗 Share this article The Peruvian government to Declare National Emergency After Deadly Protests Against Recently Inaugurated Leader The nation will soon impose emergency measures after one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests against President José JerÃ, inaugurated only a few days prior. Official Measures Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact emergency protocols for the capital imminently and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity. 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, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration. Protest Dynamics 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, was killed during the protest and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, stated a human rights representative, from the national oversight institution. The nation's judicial authorities said Ruiz died after being shot. Government Position Jerà expressed regret over Ruiz's death in a post on X, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. He attributed the unrest to "criminal elements exploiting peaceful protests". "Legal consequences will be severe," he affirmed. Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, Jerà said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues". Planned Changes The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, 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 11 people were detained. Governing Challenges Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how JerÃ's nascent presidency – 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, involving graft accusations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerà has denied wrongdoing in both cases and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings. Historical Precedent The previous administration faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal. The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, with a single-digit approval rating.