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The nation will soon impose emergency measures following at least one person was killed and dozens of police officers were injured in widespread protests against the newly installed president, who assumed power just days ago.

Government Response

The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact emergency protocols for the capital within hours and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity.

Wednesday evening's demonstration – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – 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. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while some protesters hurled fireworks, rocks and burning objects.

"Everyone must go!" protesters chanted when they reached congress and tried to tear down metal barriers protecting the building.

Casualties and Investigation

Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, aged 32, was killed during the protest and his death would be investigated, said Fernando Losada, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. Peru's prosecutor's office confirmed the victim sustained fatal gunshot wounds.

Government Position

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.

Proposed Reforms

Jerí said one focus would be prison reform, though specific authority details remained unspecified.

Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, adding that 89 police and 22 civilians had been injured during the protest and multiple individuals faced arrest.

Governing Challenges

Wednesday's protests were a bellwether for the new administration's trajectory – which ends next July due to scheduled elections – might develop.

Jerí, 38 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 pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Previous Administration

The previous administration faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, leading to dozens of deaths and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal.

Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president faces comparable public disapproval, with a single-digit approval rating.