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The nation will soon impose emergency measures following at least one person was killed and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in massive demonstrations 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 imminently and crafting a comprehensive plan to address escalating safety concerns.

The protest on Wednesday night – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – represented the most recent in ongoing protests against corruption and rising crime, which led to the dramatic midnight ouster of former president Dina Boluarte last Thursday.

Protest Dynamics

Thousands of protesters amassed around the country, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Police fired teargas while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices.

"All must leave!" demonstrators shouted upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers protecting the building.

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 said Ruiz died after being shot.

Government Position

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality in a post on X, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. He attributed the unrest to "criminal elements exploiting peaceful protests".

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

Following legislative discussions regarding the demonstrations, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".

Planned Changes

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, adding that 89 police and 22 civilians had been injured during the protest and multiple individuals faced arrest.

Political Context

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for how Jerí's nascent presidency – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – could play out.

The 38-year-old leader has promised to make crime his top priority but encountered multiple controversies, involving graft accusations and previously examined misconduct claims. Jerí has denied wrongdoing in both cases and expressed willingness to cooperate with any corruption investigation.

Historical Precedent

The previous administration faced widespread protests following the 2022 transition, resulting in multiple fatalities and catastrophic approval rating decline, registering minimal public support before removal.

Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president is almost equally unpopular, with a single-digit approval rating.