Peru's Congress has voted to remove President Dina Boluarte from office, citing her failure to address a worsening crime crisis and what lawmakers described as "permanent moral incapacity" to govern. The impeachment motion passed with 118 votes, leading to the swearing-in of Congress leader José Jerí as interim president until elections due in April 2026.
Boluarte refused to appear before Congress for an overnight hearing on Friday, skipping proceedings that culminated in her removal. Her tenure has been marked by widespread protests, multiple scandals, and a surge in gang-related violence, with her approval rating plummeting.
Jerí, after being sworn in, said he "humbly assume[s] the presidency of the republic" to lead a transitional government. He took over following the impeachment, which cited Boluarte's "permanent moral incapacity" to carry out her duties since taking office in December 2022.
Boluarte came to power after her predecessor Pedro Castillo was impeached following an attempt to suspend Congress, a move that triggered protests in which at least 50 people died. She is the subject of several investigations, including one over her alleged failure to declare luxury jewels and watches, a scandal dubbed "Rolexgate".
Anti-government protests have escalated in recent weeks, partly due to a law passed on 5 September requiring young people to contribute to private pension funds, amid high job insecurity and an unofficial employment rate above 70%. A wave of extortion and murders by organised crime groups has also fuelled public anger over the past six months.
