Gen Z protests reach Peru: one dead, hundreds injured amid nationwide unrest

Tengrinews.kz – Massive protests led by Peru’s Generation Z have erupted across the country, leaving one person dead and hundreds injured. Demonstrators are demanding the resignation of President José Jeri, who took office just days ago, citing AP News.

The unrest began a month ago with calls to raise pensions and wages for young people but has since grown into a broader movement against crime, corruption, and government inefficiency.

Protesters launched fireworks toward police, who responded with tear gas and rubber bullets. Around 100 people have been injured — including 80 police officers and 10 journalists. One protester was reportedly shot dead, and authorities have opened an investigation into the incident.

President Jeri has faced controversy since his appointment. He was previously accused of sexual assault — a case later dismissed by prosecutors — though an investigation into another man allegedly involved in the same incident remains ongoing. Critics also condemn Jeri for voting in favor of six laws that they say weakened the country’s fight against organized crime.

Protesters are calling for both the president and members of parliament to resign and repeal what they describe as “pro-crime legislation”.

“My duty is to preserve the stability of the country — that is my responsibility and my obligation,” Jeri told local media, expressing regret over the death of a protester but rejecting calls to step down.

According to Reuters, Prime Minister Ernesto Álvarez announced that a state of emergency will be declared in the capital, Lima, as the government prepares new measures to combat rising crime.