Tragic Unrest in Peru: Protests Claim Life Amid Political Turmoil

Tue Oct 21 2025 16:58:03 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Escalating tensions between young protesters and police in Lima have led to tragic consequences, culminating in the death of a 32-year-old man amid demands for change in governance.

Recent clashes in Lima, Peru, between anti-government protesters and police resulted in the death of Eduardo Ruiz Sáenz and injuries to over 100 individuals. The protests, fueled by frustration over crime and governmental corruption, erupted shortly after newly appointed President José Jerí took office. The unrest highlights discontent with the political system as many young Peruvians call for accountability and substantial political reform.

Clashes between anti-government protesters and riot police in the Peruvian capital, Lima, have left a 32-year-old man dead and over 100 injured, including many police officers. These protests have emerged just days after José Jerí was sworn in as the interim president following the impeachment of his predecessor, Dina Boluarte.

The demonstrations primarily organized by young Peruvians are a cry for the political class to address high levels of crime and corruption. President Jerí responded to the unrest by stating that the protest had been infiltrated by criminals intent on causing chaos, initiating an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the protester's death.

Jerí expressed his regret over the death of Eduardo Ruiz Sáenz without detailing the cause, while left-wing congresswoman Ruth Luque noted that preliminary reports suggested he was killed by a bullet wound to the chest. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the musician shot allegedly by an individual they claimed was a plainclothes police officer. In light of these allegations, Jerí pledged an investigation to objectively determine what happened.

Since taking office last week, Jerí, of the conservative Somos Perú party, has seen a surge in public anger directed at the political class. Protesters are calling for a 'clean slate' and demanding more concrete actions from the government against corruption and crime, particularly in light of alarming extortions affecting taxi and bus drivers.

The unrest reflects a broader disenchantment with Peru's political landscape, amplifying calls from the youth for substantial reform as they engage in protests across major cities. Activists even suggested a demand for Jerí to resign in favor of a more independent lawmaker, amidst accusations against his party for previously supporting Boluarte, whose popularity had plummeted before her removal.

The ongoing situation is part of a larger trend of instability in Peru, with Jerí now serving as the country’s seventh president in just eight years, raising critical questions about governance and the future direction of the nation.