Peru’s political turmoil deepened on Friday as lawmakers voted overwhelmingly to impeach President Dina Boluarte, ending her tumultuous tenure marked by public unrest, corruption scandals, and a surge in violent crime.
The impeachment came after Boluarte defied a late-night congressional summons, refusing to attend a hearing scheduled for 11:30 p.m. local time. Despite her absence, 118 legislators voted in favor of her removal, a move announced by Congress leader Jose Jeri, who is expected to assume interim leadership until the next general elections slated for April 2026.
Boluarte, who ascended to power in December 2022 following the ouster of Pedro Castillo, has faced multiple impeachment attempts during her short time in office. Her administration has been dogged by allegations of corruption, including the so-called “Rolexgate” scandal, in which she allegedly failed to declare expensive watches and jewelry.
Her popularity has steadily declined amid mounting protests over economic hardships, rampant insecurity, and a controversial law requiring young citizens to contribute to private pension schemes despite widespread unemployment.
The impeachment motion accused Boluarte of “permanent moral incapacity” to lead the country — a constitutional provision frequently invoked in Peru’s recent political crises. The country has now witnessed six presidents in just nine years, underscoring its chronic instability.
Boluarte’s government had also come under fire for a violent crackdown on demonstrations following Castillo’s removal, which left more than 50 people dead. More recently, citizens have taken to the streets again to denounce her policies and the growing threat of organized crime.
Her downfall marks yet another chapter in Peru’s ongoing leadership crisis, as the nation grapples with political distrust, social unrest, and deepening insecurity.
AFP
