Peru Political Shift Amid Crisis: Leadership Change and Crackdown on Crime
Peru’s Political Shift Amid Crisis
Peru’s president Dina Boluarte was removed from office following a turbulent period marked by rising crime and corruption allegations. Her impeachment, supported by a broad coalition in Congress, underscored deep political fractures and widespread dissatisfaction with her administration’s handling of national security and governance issues.
Leadership Change and Promises
In the wake of Boluarte’s ouster, acting president José Jerí stepped in, pledging a decisive war on crime. Jerí’s promise reflects urgent public demand for stability and reform, aiming to restore trust in government institutions and curb the violence that has plagued Peru in recent years.
Challenges Ahead
Jerí faces significant challenges, including addressing corruption entrenched in various state sectors and managing political polarization. His leadership will be critical in navigating Peru through this fragile transition period, as citizens expect concrete actions against crime and transparent governance.
About the People Mentioned
Dina Boluarte
**Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra**, born May 31, 1962, in Chalhuanca, Apurímac, Peru, is a lawyer and politician who served as Peru's first female president from December 7, 2022, to October 10, 2025.[1][2][3] Elected in 2021 as the running mate of Pedro Castillo on the Free Peru Party ticket, she assumed roles as vice president and Minister of Development and Social Inclusion following his victory.[3][5] Boluarte's presidency began abruptly after Congress removed Castillo from office for attempting a self-coup by dissolving Congress, leading to his arrest.[1][2][4] Sworn in on December 7, 2022, she called for national unity, a political truce, and anti-corruption efforts while seeking support from centrist and right-wing parliamentary groups.[1][3] Her term, originally set to end in July 2026, faced immediate challenges including widespread protests, political polarization, rising crime, and gang violence.[2][3][6] Her administration survived eight impeachment attempts amid low approval ratings in single digits and controversies, such as a decree doubling her salary.[2][3] Critics highlighted over 50 protester deaths during her tenure and accusations of democratic backsliding, including anti-NGO legislation and executive power consolidation with Congress.[6] Ongoing corruption probes targeted her and allies, including raids on her home.[6] On October 10, 2025, Congress impeached and removed Boluarte in a unanimous 122-0 vote for "permanent moral incapacity," marking her as Peru's sixth president in under five years.[1][2][3] Congress President José Jerí succeeded her.[2] Prior to national office, Boluarte ran unsuccessfully for local and congressional seats in 2018 and 2020.[3] Her tenure underscored Peru's institutional instability.[1][4] (298 words)
José Jerí
**José Enrique Jerí Oré**, born on November 13, 1986, in Lima's Jesús María district, is a Peruvian lawyer and politician serving as interim President of Peru since October 10, 2025.[1][2][5] He graduated with a law degree, with sources citing Inca Garcilaso de la Vega University or Universidad Nacional Federico Villarreal, and early in his career advised the right-wing Somos Perú party.[4][5] Jerí entered politics by winning a seat in the Peruvian Congress in the 2021 elections, representing Lima as a substitute for former President Martín Vizcarra from the same party.[1][2] On July 26, 2025, he was elected President of Congress, supported by a coalition that had backed Dina Boluarte.[1][2] Following Boluarte's impeachment by Congress amid scandals, low approval ratings under 10%, and public outrage over crime and a deadly 2022 crackdown, Jerí ascended to the presidency as Peru's seventh (or eighth, per some counts) leader in less than a decade, marking ongoing institutional instability.[1][2][3][4] His notable roles include congressional lawmaker, where he backed six bills critics say weakened anti-crime measures, and Congress president before his rapid rise.[3] Key achievements are limited by his short tenure and novice status; upon swearing in at age 38—one of the world's youngest leaders—he pledged reconciliation, tackling rampant crime, and electoral neutrality ahead of April 2026 elections, through which he will serve out Boluarte's term ending July 28, 2026.[2][6] Jerí faces controversy, including a January 2025 sexual assault accusation shelved without explanation by prosecutors (which he denied) and early career bribery claims.[1][2] Recent events highlight protests against his ultraconservative Prime Minister Ernesto Álvarez appointment, youth-led unrest over corruption and crime policies, and demands for his resignation amid clashes with police using tear gas and rubber bullets.[3] As of late 2025, he seeks expanded powers to fight crime while navigating a polarized nation.[3] (298 words)
About the Organizations Mentioned
Congress
The United States Congress is the legislative branch of the federal government, playing a pivotal role in shaping the nation's policies and laws. As a bicameral legislature, it consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate, each with distinct responsibilities. The House represents congressional districts, while the Senate represents states, ensuring diverse perspectives are heard. **History and Structure:** Congress has a rich history, evolving over time to reflect the nation's demographic changes and political shifts. It is structured into committees that specialize in various policy areas, facilitating the legislative process. The National Archives and Records Administration maintains historical records of Congress, highlighting its ongoing role in governance. **Key Achievements:** Throughout its history, Congress has achieved numerous milestones, including landmark legislation such as the Civil Rights Act and the Affordable Care Act. It has also played a significant role in shaping the nation's economic policies, influencing business and technological advancements. **Current Status:** The 119th Congress, which convened in January 2025, marks significant changes with a Republican majority in both chambers. This setup has implications for policy-making, especially in areas like healthcare and technology regulation. The current Congress is also notable for its diversity, being the most racially and ethnically diverse in history. **Notable Aspects:** - **Diversity and Representation:** The 119th Congress is the most diverse in U.S. history, with increased representation from diverse ethnic backgrounds and the inclusion of the first openly transgender federal legislator. - **Technological Integration:** Congress uses technology to enhance legislative processes, such as through platforms like Congress.gov, which provides access to legislative information and resources. - **Economic Impact:** Congress's decisions have profound impacts on business and technology sectors, influencing regulatory environments and investment opportunities. In summary, the U.S. Congress is a dynamic institution that plays a crucial role in shaping the nation's policies, laws, and economic landscape. Its ongoing evolution reflects the changing needs and demographics of the country, making it a vital
