Lima:  Peru is facing a new wave of unrest as widespread protests have broken out against newly appointed President José Jerí, just days after he took office following the removal of Dina Boluarte. The demonstrations, which began peacefully, turned violent in several cities, leaving one person dead and dozens injured.

The deceased protester has been identified as 32-year-old Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, who was reportedly shot during a confrontation between demonstrators and security forces. Officials said more than 70 people were injured, including police officers and civilians, as clashes erupted in Lima and other regions.

President Jerí condemned the violence and called for calm, promising a thorough investigation into the death. He blamed what he described as “delinquents” for infiltrating otherwise peaceful protests and vowed to restore order. However, his remarks have done little to ease public frustration as anger over corruption, insecurity, and political instability continues to grow.

The unrest follows a week of political turmoil that saw Congress impeach former President Dina Boluarte for “permanent moral incapacity.” Boluarte, who had been battling multiple corruption investigations, was removed on October 10. A court has since rejected a request to prevent her from leaving the country, ruling that she poses no flight risk.

José Jerí, previously serving as President of Congress, assumed office amid accusations of his own. Past allegations of corruption and sexual misconduct, which he denies, have resurfaced as critics question his legitimacy. His swift rise to power has deepened public skepticism toward Peru’s political establishment, which many citizens view as riddled with self-interest and scandal.

Protests have spread to multiple regions, including Cajamarca, Cusco, and Arequipa, with demonstrators demanding Jerí’s resignation and the dissolution of Congress. Many of the protesters are young activists, workers, and civil groups who say they are tired of years of political infighting and the growing wave of crime and extortion affecting daily life.

The new president has refused to step down, saying his administration will focus on restoring security and tackling organized crime. He has asked Congress for special legislative powers to implement emergency measures. Yet, analysts warn that his tough stance could backfire if he fails to address the protesters’ demands for deeper political reform.

Peru’s latest crisis highlights a broader sense of disillusionment among citizens, who have seen six presidents in less than a decade. While the protests reflect anger over immediate political events, they also underscore deep-rooted frustrations with inequality, corruption, and the lack of trust in public institutions.

As investigations into the protester’s death continue, human rights groups are urging the government to avoid excessive force and engage in dialogue. With tensions running high and the public demanding accountability, President Jerí’s leadership faces an early and severe test that could shape Peru’s political direction in the coming months.