President Dina Boluarte Refuses to Resign as Demonstrations Claim 42 Lives and Disrupt Nation

In response to escalating protests, Peru’s government has declared a 30-day state of emergency in the capital city of Lima and three other regions. This measure follows weeks of unrest that have claimed at least 42 lives, sparking outrage and violence against President Dina Boluarte’s administration.

The state of emergency empowers the military to intervene and maintain order, while suspending several constitutional rights, including freedom of movement and assembly. The regions affected, in addition to Lima, include Cusco, Puno, and the nearby port of Callao.

Protesters, particularly concentrated in the southern regions of Peru, have erected over 100 roadblocks, disrupting traffic and bringing the country to a standstill. Despite this, authorities have managed to reopen Cusco international airport, which is a crucial hub for the nation’s tourism industry.

On Friday, President Boluarte addressed the nation, insisting she would not resign despite growing calls from protesters and radical factions for her to step down. “My commitment is with Peru,” she stated defiantly during a late-night speech on state television. She acknowledged the violence and unrest but expressed regret for the tragic loss of life.

The protests, which began after Boluarte assumed office in December, have become increasingly intense, with demonstrators calling for her resignation and the dissolution of the Congress. Despite widespread anger and demands for change, Boluarte has maintained that she will not bow to pressure, reinforcing her stance on national stability.