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Peru is set to declare a state of emergency after one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests against the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.

Government Response

The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima imminently and crafting a comprehensive plan to tackle rising insecurity.

The protest on Wednesday night – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – was the latest in a series of demonstrations against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.

Demonstration Developments

Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with hundreds clashing with police outside congress in Lima. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.

"Everyone must go!" protesters chanted upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers 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. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Government Position

Jerí expressed regret over Ruiz's death through social media channels, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. 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, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters.

Planned Changes

The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, though specific authority details remained unspecified.

Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, adding that 89 police and 22 civilians had been injured during the protest and 11 people were detained.

Governing Challenges

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how Jerí's nascent presidency – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop.

The 38-year-old leader has promised to make crime his top priority but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Historical Precedent

Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal.

Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.