Peru’s political crisis deepened as newly appointed President Jose Jeri refused to step down despite widespread antigovernment protests that have rocked the nation. The unrest escalated following the death of 32-year-old rapper Eduardo Ruiz, who was killed during mass demonstrations in Lima, prompting calls for justice and a state of emergency in the capital.

Deadly Protests and Political Turmoil

The protests, led primarily by Gen Z activists, began a month ago over demands for better pensions and wages for young people but quickly evolved into a broader movement expressing frustration with government corruption, rising crime, and political instability.

Eduardo Ruiz, a popular hip-hop singer, became the first casualty of these demonstrations. According to Peru’s police chief, General Oscar Arriola, police officer Luis Magallanes allegedly fired the fatal bullet. Magallanes was detained, dismissed from duty, and is now hospitalized after being assaulted during the aftermath.

Thousands of Peruvians gathered nationwide, with hundreds clashing with police outside Congress in Lima, demanding Jeri’s resignation. This turmoil follows the ouster of former President Dina Boluarte, marking Jeri as the seventh president in less than a decade.

President Jeri’s Response

Addressing the media, Jeri stated:

“My responsibility is to maintain the stability of the country; that is my responsibility and my commitment.”

He also announced plans to request expanded powers to combat crime. In response to Ruiz’s death, Jeri expressed regret on X (formerly Twitter), pledging a full investigation while blaming violent elements for infiltrating the peaceful protest:

“The full force of the law will be on them.”

Government Actions and Investigations

The Prosecutor’s Office has launched a formal investigation into Ruiz’s death, including collection of audiovisual and ballistic evidence from the scene. Newly appointed Interior Minister Vicente Tiburcio reported that the protests left 89 police officers and 22 civilians injured, and 11 people detained.

Activists and citizens have voiced outrage over Ruiz’s killing. Milagros Samillan, an activist, said:

“He was peacefully hanging out with his friends. Unfortunately, the bullet hit his chest. We want justice for him.”

The Broader Context

Ruiz’s death adds another layer to an ongoing political crisis in Peru. Public frustration is fueled by a combination of rampant corruption, economic instability, and rising insecurity, which has plagued the country in recent years.

Jeri’s refusal to resign signals a tense standoff between Peruvian authorities and protesting citizens, raising questions about how the government will navigate this crisis while maintaining law and order.