Peru’s President Dina Boluarte Impeached, Replaced by José Jerí

Peru’s Congress voted early today to remove President Dina Boluarte from office amid rising crime rates, swiftly replacing her with the legislative body’s leader, José Jerí.

Lawmakers initiated an impeachment trial late yesterday after accepting four requests to remove Boluarte, citing her government’s failure to address escalating crime. When Boluarte did not appear to defend herself before the 130-member unicameral Congress, the vote to impeach proceeded, resulting in 124 votes in favor with none against. This dramatic shift comes after a shooting at a concert in the capital city inflamed public anger over the country’s security situation.

Boluarte, Peru’s first female president, addressed the nation on television following the vote, stating, “I have not thought of myself, but rather of Peruvians.” Her administration, however, had been plagued by scandals and a surge in criminal activity; official figures show 6,041 people were killed between January and mid-August – the highest number since 2017. Extortion complaints also rose by 28% between January and July, reaching 15,989. Boluarte assumed office in December 2022 after her predecessor, Pedro Castillo, was impeached and removed from power. You can learn more about Peru’s recent political instability from the Council on Foreign Relations.

José Jerí was sworn in as interim president today and stated he would defend Peru’s sovereignty and oversee the country until the scheduled elections in April. These elections will determine the next leader of a nation that has seen six presidents in under a decade, highlighting a period of significant political turmoil. The United Nations has a dedicated page for information on Peru and its ongoing challenges.

Jerí pledged to hand over power to the winner of the April election, while Boluarte’s departure marks the latest chapter in Peru’s ongoing political crisis.