where 17 civilians and one police officer killed A months-long political crisis in Peru crossed a bloody threshold on Monday amid anti-government protests and could lead to more waves of violence. This incident not only shows the brutality of the country’s security personnel in dealing with the protests, but also shows Failure of President Dina Boluarte and of his predecessor Pedro Castillo In uniting and stabilizing the country while in power. The crisis is the result of a power struggle between Mr. Castillo and Congress. Mr Castillo, a former school teacher and trade unionist, was elected president in 2021 on promises to ensure political stability, fight corruption and address chronic inequality. But without any administrative and political experience, Mr. Castillo found it difficult to negotiate the maze of Peruvian politics. As he struggled to hold on to governance, a hostile Congress and the wealthy stood against him. Corruption scandals and alleged ties to criminal cartels weakened Mr. Castillo’s position in Lima. Congress voted twice to dismiss him, but failed to garner sufficient support. As the third vote was about to take place in December last year, Mr Castillo made a drastic announcement to dissolve Congress, triggering his impeachment.
But if Mr Castillo, who is currently in prison, miscalculated the consequences of his decision to dissolve parliament, his successor and legislators misjudged the leftist leader’s support among the poor. Violent protests broke out in the highlands of Peru demanding Mr. Castillo’s reinstatement or early elections. Mr Castillo called Ms Bolluarte a “grabber”, while her supporters said the president they voted for was not allowed to serve out her legitimate term, which was due to expire in 2026. At least 47 people, mostly civilians, have been killed in protests since Mr Castillo was ousted. As he came under heavy pressure, Ms. Boluarte promised to hold elections by April 2024 (pending approval from Congress), but this was rejected by Mr. Castillo and his supporters, leaving the country in disarray. Both sides have a hand in the current crisis and should come together to find a solution. It may not be practical and constitutionally possible to reinstate Mr. Castillo, but Ms. Boluaart’s government could release him from prison in exchange for peace. To end the current impasse, the government, the opposition and the Congress must agree on a possible date for new elections at the earliest. Peru’s political class must also prepare for sweeping constitutional reforms that allow the president and legislature to function without conflict.