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The nation will soon impose emergency measures after at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in massive demonstrations against the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.

Official Measures

The nation's premier said late on Thursday that authorities would enact the state of emergency in Lima imminently and crafting a comprehensive plan to tackle rising insecurity.

The protest on Wednesday night – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – represented the most recent in ongoing protests against corruption and rising crime, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.

Demonstration Developments

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

Casualties and Investigation

Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, said Fernando Losada, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Official Statements

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality through social media channels, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. He attributed the unrest to "criminal elements exploiting peaceful protests".

"Legal consequences will be severe," he affirmed.

After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".

Planned Changes

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, adding that 89 police and 22 civilians had been injured during the protest and 11 people were detained.

Political Context

The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for the new administration's trajectory – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – could play out.

Jerí, 38 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 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.