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The nation will soon impose emergency measures following at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests targeting President José Jerí, who assumed power just days ago.

Official Measures

Prime minister Ernesto Alvarez announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima within hours 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 targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.

Demonstration Developments

Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Police fired teargas while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices.

"All must leave!" protesters chanted when they reached congress and tried to tear down metal barriers 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, said Fernando Losada, from the national oversight institution. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot.

Official Statements

Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death in a post on X, 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.

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

Planned Changes

Jerí said one focus would be prison reform, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail.

Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio informed legislators that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and multiple individuals faced arrest.

Governing Challenges

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how Jerí's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out.

The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.

Previous Administration

The previous administration encountered mass demonstrations 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.