Thousands of demonstrators from across Peru moved again to Lima to protest the ousting of the interim president. Anger against Dina Boluarte exploded in the streets. There were riots. The police used tear gas to disperse the protesters. According to official data, more than a dozen people were injured in the capital. There were at least 38 people across the country.
Many students and unions were present at the protests. A large police force – 11,800 security agents – was deployed at the university and in the historic center of Lima.
President threatens fines after protests
Some protesters threw stones at the police and tried to break through the barriers. Security forces responded with tear gas. The government asked people to stay at home and work from there.
At night, Boluarte appeared on television. She accused the protesters of not having a social agenda and thanked the police for their work in keeping the – literally – “violent protests” under control. She threatened those responsible with fines.
The interim president also announced that parliamentary and presidential elections would be held in 2024 – two years ahead of schedule – a concession to the protesters.
Later that night, however, violence escalated and a huge fire broke out in the center of town. At first, however, it was unclear whether there was any connection to the protests. People rushed to the burning buildings to remove valuables.
Protesters sympathize with ousted President Castillo
Protests began when his predecessor Pedro Castillo was ousted and Boluarte was sworn in in early December.
The rallies have gradually grown in recent weeks and reached such proportions that protesters may not be happy with Boluarte’s resignation. They demand the dissolution of parliament, immediate new elections and structural reforms.
Castillo was the first president of Peru who came from a poor background. His parents were illiterate. He was removed from office when he tried in vain to dissolve Parliament.