Peru’s new President Jose Jeri looks on during the swearing-in ceremony, after Congress voted to remove former President Dina Boluarte, in Lima, on October 10, 2025.
| Photo Credit: Reuters
Peru’s new President declared a state of emergency in the capital on Tuesday (October 21, 2025) in the government’s latest attempt to stem a surge in violence that has stirred protests and contributed to the recent downfall of his predecessor.
Peru has seen an increase of killings, violent extortion and attacks on public places in recent years. Between January and September, police reported 1,690 homicides, compared to 1,502 during the same period of 2024.
Former President Dina Boluarte was removed from office by Peru’s Congress on October 10, 2025, after an impeachment process in which lawmakers said she had been unable to tackle the crime wave. She was immediately replaced by Jose Jeri, the legislative body’s leader.
In a televised message, Mr. Jeri said the emergency in Lima will last 30 days, and added that the government is considering steps including deploying soldiers to help police and restricting some rights, such as the freedom of assembly and movement. His government published later a decree formally declaring the emergency.
“Wars are won with actions, not words,” the President said in the address. He said he’s planning to a new approach to fighting crime that he described as going “from defence to offence.” Peru has seen major protests against violence and corruption led by Gen Z activists.
Protesters rallied in Lima on Thursday (October 16, 2025) to demand the resignation of the new President. The demonstration turned violent, leaving one civilian dead and around 100 people injured, including police officers and some journalists. Mr. Jeri said that same day that he wouldn’t resign.
Former President Dina Boluarte declared a 30-day state of emergency in March, but it did little to reduce crime.
Published – October 22, 2025 11:37 am IST
