🔗 Share this article The Peruvian government Plans to Announce National Emergency Following Deadly Protests Against New President Peru is set to impose emergency measures following one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests targeting President José JerÃ, who assumed power just days ago. Government Response The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that the government would declare emergency protocols for the capital within hours and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns. The protest on Wednesday night – called by gen Z protesters, transport workers and civil groups – represented the most recent in ongoing protests targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration. Protest Dynamics 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!" protesters chanted when they reached congress and attempted to breach security barricades surrounding the structure. Casualties and Investigation Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, stated a human rights representative, from the national oversight institution. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot. Government Position Jerà 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". "Legal consequences will be severe," he said. 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, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail. Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress 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. 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 has promised to make crime his top priority but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerà has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation. Previous Administration Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations following the 2022 transition, resulting in multiple fatalities 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.