Lima: In a dramatic turn of events, Peru's Congress voted late Thursday night to remove President Dina Boluarte from office, citing "permanent moral incapacity." This decision marks a significant moment in the country's ongoing political turmoil.
Boluarte, who ascended to the presidency in December 2022 following the ousting of her predecessor, Pedro Castillo, has faced mounting criticism throughout her tenure. Her approval ratings have plummeted to between 2% and 4%, making her one of the least popular leaders globally. The motion for her removal was introduced by opposition lawmakers and garnered the support of at least 34 members of Congress. For the motion to proceed, it required approval from at least 52 lawmakers, which it successfully achieved.
The charges against Boluarte encompass serious allegations, including the controversial "Rolexgate" scandal, where she is accused of illicit enrichment through the possession of luxury watches. Additionally, her administration has been criticized for its heavy-handed response to protests, particularly in rural Andean and Indigenous communities, leading to numerous deaths and widespread unrest.
Despite being summoned to defend herself before Congress, Boluarte did not attend the session, allowing lawmakers to proceed with the removal process. The swift action reflects the growing discontent among legislators and the public.
In the aftermath of the vote, Jose Jeri, the President of Congress, was sworn in as the new interim president. This leadership change comes at a critical juncture, with general elections scheduled for April 2026. The political landscape remains volatile, and it remains to be seen how the new administration will address the pressing issues facing the nation.
Peru's political instability is not new; the country has experienced significant turmoil in recent years, with six different presidents since 2018 and four former leaders currently imprisoned. The removal of Boluarte adds to this history of political upheaval, raising questions about the future direction of the nation's governance.
As the situation develops, both domestic and international observers will be closely monitoring the actions of the interim government and the upcoming elections, hoping for a resolution to the ongoing crisis.