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Peru is set to impose emergency measures after one fatality occurred and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests against President José Jerí, inaugurated only a few days prior.

Official Measures

The nation's premier announced Thursday evening 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 – 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.

Protest Dynamics

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, 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 attempted to breach security barricades protecting the building.

Casualties and Investigation

A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, lost his life in the demonstration and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, said Fernando Losada, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office said Ruiz died after being shot.

Official Statements

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality through social media channels, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. He blamed violence on "delinquents who infiltrated a peaceful demonstration to sow chaos".

"Legal consequences will be severe," he affirmed.

Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, the president requested expanded powers to address security matters.

Proposed Reforms

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, 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 the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – might develop.

The 38-year-old leader committed to prioritizing public safety but has faced a number of scandals, involving graft accusations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Previous Administration

Boluarte's government encountered mass demonstrations after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, which oscillated between 2% and 4% in the days leading up to her ouster.

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