By Charles Maduka
Lawmakers in Peru have voted to remove President Dina Boluarte from office following widespread protests and growing public outrage over crime and corruption.
Boluarte, who came to power in December 2022 after the impeachment of former President Pedro Castillo, was accused of “permanent moral incapacity” to lead the country. Her tenure had been plagued by multiple scandals, including allegations of corruption, failure to declare luxury gifts in the “Rolexgate” scandal, and her decision to increase her own salary in July.
A majority of lawmakers, including some who were once loyal to her, voted late Thursday to begin impeachment proceedings. She refused to appear before Congress for the scheduled hearing, leading to 118 lawmakers voting in favor of her removal.
Following the vote, Congress leader Jose Jeri announced the impeachment’s approval and was immediately sworn in as interim president. His tenure is expected to last until the next general elections slated for April 2026.
Boluarte’s presidency was marked by months of anti-government demonstrations, accusations of human rights abuses, and a surge in gang-related violence. Recent protests intensified after a controversial law was passed compelling young citizens to contribute to private pension funds despite widespread unemployment and job insecurity.
Peru has now seen six presidents in just nine years, underscoring the country’s deep political instability and the challenges ahead for the new leadership.
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