Clashes between anti-government protesters and riot police in the Peruvian capital, Lima, have left a 32-year-old man dead and more than 100 people injured, including many police officers.
The protests come just days after José Jerí was sworn in as interim president following the impeachment of his predecessor, Dina Boluarte.
Wednesday’s demonstrations were organized mainly by young Peruvians demanding that the political class do more to combat high levels of crime and corruption.
President Jerí stated that the protest had been infiltrated by individuals intending to incite chaos and announced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the protester's death.
He expressed regret over the death of Eduardo Ruiz Sáenz, but did not provide details regarding the nature of the incident. Ruth Luque, a left-wing congress member, indicated that preliminary information suggested the hip hop artist had been killed by a bullet wound to the chest.
Witnesses claimed they saw the musician shot by a person who appeared to be a plainclothes police officer.
President Jerí pledged to launch a thorough investigation to ascertain the circumstances and accountability for the incident.
Jerí assumed office as the seventh president of Peru in a span of just eight years, being next in line after Boluarte’s impeachment due to accusations of permanent moral incapacity.
Despite his recent appointment, public anger directed at the political establishment has flared, with thousands demanding a fresh start and significant reforms to tackle corruption and rampant crime rates, especially extortions affecting local transport operators.
Your government must address the needs of the people, activists have urged, with some calling for Jerí to resign in favor of an independent lawmaker.
Recent reports describe a chaotic backdrop, following a deadly attack on a band several weeks ago, leading to a swift political shift among lawmakers who previously supported Boluarte, deeming her position unsustainable.
The tensions in Peru reflect deep-rooted frustrations with the ruling elite, and the government now faces a substantial challenge as it seeks to reconcile with its citizens amidst calls for accountability and justice.
