đź”— Share this article The Peruvian government Plans to Announce State of Emergency After Deadly Demonstrations Against Recently Inaugurated Leader Peru is set to impose emergency measures following one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests against the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago. Official Measures The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima within hours and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity. 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. Protest Dynamics Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects. "All must leave!" protesters chanted when they reached congress 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, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds. Government Position JerĂ expressed regret over Ruiz's death through social media channels, promising an impartial inquiry. He attributed the unrest to "criminal elements exploiting peaceful protests". "The full force of the law will be on them," he affirmed. After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters. Proposed Reforms The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, 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. Political Context Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how JerĂ's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – 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. The president refuted all allegations 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 catastrophic approval rating decline, which oscillated between 2% and 4% in the days leading up to her ouster. The legislative body previously led by the current president faces comparable public disapproval, with a single-digit approval rating.