Peru Plunges into Political Crisis as Mass Protests Rock Lima
Lima, Peru — Generation Z activists and a united front of civil society groups and union members have pushed Peru into a state of escalating instability, culminating in a second straight weekend of massive demonstrations in the capital, Lima. The protests, initially sparked by unpopular pension reform, have broadened into a sweeping national outcry demanding systemic political change and the immediate resignation of President Dina Boluarte.
Thousands March on Centers of Power
On Saturday and Sunday, thousands of demonstrators again poured into Lima's streets, with key columns targeting the symbols of state authority: the National Congress and the Presidential Palace.
The core demands articulated by the youthful organizers of Generation Z and their allies are focused on accountability and anti-corruption. Protesters are demanding:
- The resignation of President Boluarte.
- The replacement of the widely unpopular Congress.
- Justice for civilians killed during previous rounds of political unrest.
- An end to entrenched corruption that plagues the nation's political elite.
Violent Clashes and Casualties Reported
The demonstrations saw significant clashes as security forces attempted to contain the crowds. Several groups of protesters attempted to breach police barricades, utilizing stones, sticks, and improvised firebombs in the confrontations.
In response, state security forces deployed tear gas and allegedly fired pellets (rubber bullets), leading to a spike in casualties. Preliminary reports from the weekend's unrest confirm:
- At least 30 people injured, including 19 police officers, 9 journalists and photographers, and several demonstrators.
- Journalists and human rights groups strongly condemned the use of force, citing injuries from police projectiles.
- Six arrests were made on charges related to rioting and violence against police personnel.
Transportation Strike Amplifies National Tension
Compounding the street dissent was a 48-hour transportation strike (September 27–28) organized by powerful union federations. The strike severely disrupted city buses, taxis, and public transit across Lima, drawing in broader participation from frustrated and affected communities and further escalating tensions.
Boluarte ’s Crisis Deepens with Historic Unpopularity
Despite the government's partial concession walking back the controversial pension reform that first ignited the unrest the crisis has continued to worsen. President Dina Boluarte faces unprecedented public rejection, with her approval rating sinking to a historic low of just 2.5% in recent public opinion polls.
The administration’s continued reliance on a heavy-handed response to the protests which has been widely criticized by human rights organizations as harsh and disproportionate has only deepened the public's resolve and anger.
Outlook: Political Instability Threatens Peru
With a united, broad-based mobilization demanding systemic change and Boluarte 's government unable to muster public support, Peru's political instability is set to continue. The question remains whether the administration can survive this immense public pressure without agreeing to major political concessions, such as early general elections.
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