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Peru is set to declare a state of emergency following one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests against the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.

Government Response

The nation's premier said late on Thursday that the government would declare the state of emergency in Lima within hours and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns.

Wednesday evening's demonstration – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – 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

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Police fired teargas while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.

"All must leave!" demonstrators shouted upon arriving at the legislature and attempted to breach security barricades surrounding the structure.

Victims and Inquiry

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. The nation's judicial authorities confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Official Statements

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality through social media channels, promising an impartial inquiry. He blamed violence on "delinquents who infiltrated a peaceful demonstration to sow chaos".

"The full force of the law will be on them," he said.

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 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

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

The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.

Historical Precedent

Boluarte's government faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, resulting in multiple fatalities and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal.

The legislative body previously led by the current president is almost equally unpopular, registering minimal constituent support.