At least 19 people, including a police officer, were injured during anti-government protests in Peru over the weekend, according to authorities and human rights advocates. The demonstrations targeted both President Dina Boluarte and Congress, intensifying the political crisis facing the country.
Hundreds of protesters filled downtown Lima, marching under heavy police presence. Clashes quickly turned violent as groups of young people threw stones, firebombs, and fireworks at officers. In response, law enforcement used tear gas and rubber bullets, AFP journalists reported.
The National Human Rights Coordinator (CNDDHH), a coalition of rights groups, confirmed that 18 civilians, including a journalist, were injured. The organization placed responsibility on the police for escalating violence. “We call on the police to respect the right to protest. There was no justification for firing large amounts of tear gas, much less for attacking people,” said Mar Perez, a lawyer for CNDDHH.
Why are Peruvians protesting?
Tensions have been rising since the Boluarte administration approved a controversial law on September 5 requiring young people to contribute to private pension funds. Critics argue the law unfairly targets a generation already facing job insecurity, with more than 70 percent working in informal or unstable employment.
Beyond pension reform, corruption and organized crime have also fueled public anger. A separate march by transport workers and the Generation Z youth collective on Sunday ended with police dispersing crowds using more tear gas. “We are marching against corruption, for life and against the crime that is killing us every day,” 28-year-old engineer Adriana Flores told AFP.
How deep is the political crisis in Peru?
President Boluarte’s approval ratings have sharply declined as she approaches the final stretch of her term, set to end on July 28, 2026. Congress, dominated by conservative lawmakers, faces similar distrust due to widespread perceptions of corruption.
The protests of recent months also reflect growing frustration over escalating extortion and violent crimes linked to organized groups. With public pressure mounting and institutions losing credibility, Peru’s political future remains uncertain.
By Lucky Anyanje