Credited from: ALJAZEERA
Peru's Congress voted early Friday to remove President Dina Boluarte from office, marking a significant political upheaval as the country grapples with an escalating crime crisis. Lawmakers cited her "permanent moral incapacity" after a series of violent incidents, including a recent shooting at a popular concert that left several injured, serving as the catalyst for the impeachment request. A total of 124 out of 130 members voted in favor of her removal, reflecting overwhelming disapproval across the political spectrum, according to Reuters, Al Jazeera, and BBC.
Boluarte's removal came just hours after the congress summoned her to defend herself, a request she failed to attend. This vote came on the heels of a growing wave of dissatisfaction among citizens regarding the government's inability to control crime, which has seen a dramatic rise in homicides and extortion cases, as noted by sources such as South China Morning Post and NPR.
JosĂ© JerĂ, the 38-year-old president of Congress, was sworn in as interim president shortly after the impeachment. He emphasized a commitment to addressing the rampant crime affecting Peru, which has been exacerbated by violence linked to organized crime gangs. He labeled these criminal organizations as the "main enemy," echoing public sentiment demanding more effective governance, according to India Times and Latin America Reports.
The political landscape in Peru has been tumultuous, with Boluarte being the sixth president in less than a decade and the third to be removed by Congress. Her presidency was plagued by controversies, including allegations of corruption and neglect towards criminal activities that have overwhelmed the nation's cities. Support for her dissipated rapidly as public protests surged against her administration, highlighting the instability that has repeatedly shaken Peru's governance, outlined in reports by Le Monde and Anadolu Agency.