The year 2026 closed with rapid developments in Peru as protests intensified in distant regions, resulting in multiple casualties and renewed calls for dissolving Congress and scheduling new elections. Some demonstrators demanded the release of former president Pedro Castillo, who had been ousted and detained last week for attempting to dissolve Parliament. On Monday, the National Prosecutor filed a constitutional complaint against Castillo, signaling a continued high-stakes legal battle ahead. The interim government faced a fragile security situation, especially in rural areas where social tensions ran high, airports were occupied, and clashes with security forces occurred. In response, interim President Dina Boluarte moved to push for general elections in April 2024. Congress would review the measure, though public support for the idea appeared uneven, raising questions about Peru’s capacity to function as a stable democratic power.
Boluarte described her decision as one guided by the broadest interpretation of the citizen will and urged lawmakers to approve the plan promptly so that elections could be held with urgency. She pointed to the responsibility involved in governing and indicated a shift in the government roadmap to accommodate a faster political timetable.
From now until the date of early general elections, Boluarte articulated a commitment to advancing a political reform package through Congress. The aim is to ensure Peru’s democratic system is more efficient, transparent, and participatory. The reform would reduce opportunities for corruption and strengthen the legitimacy of political parties through active citizen engagement. Boluarte’s stance underscored a preference for a broadly supported framework, seeking to avoid a political paralysis that could worsen the crisis.
She also called on all political forces and civil society to participate in the reform process. A shared will for democratic renewal and national responsibility could lay the foundations for a stable legal and institutional life in a Peru that aspires to be united, free, and socially just.
social unrest
According to reports from the Republic, the protest movement, lacking a fixed horizon, could broaden into a more political campaign if the Executive escalates crackdowns on demonstrators. Observers warn about the risk of rapid erosion of the government’s policy capacity and the public’s patience.
For now, the conflict shows no clear sign of resolution. Hundreds of farmers and rural residents blocked major highways, and Arequipa’s international airport was briefly disrupted. Castillo maintains a network of allies in the south, while Lima’s political establishment faces a broad call for accountability. Defense Minister Alberto Otárola announced the temporary suspension of governors nationwide to confront the unfolding process, highlighting concerns about territorial stability.
The deaths in Apurímac, a southern Andean region connected to Boluarte’s own origins, added emotional weight to the crisis. Boluarte expressed sorrow for the loss of life and offered condolences to the families affected, underscoring the human toll of the political standoff.
instability
Peru, a country that has endured four presidents since 2018, shows little sign of stabilizing quickly. Commentators note that the post-C Castillo political coalition faces its first major test, and neither the presidency nor the cabinet should expect a smooth honeymoon. Analysts caution against assuming the new government’s arrival signals an end to the crisis; instead, it may mark another episode in a long-standing pattern of institutional fragility.
Experts emphasize the need to build urgent bridges between the Executive and other political forces. Success will hinge on balancing firmness with openness. The highest political leaders must navigate literal and metaphorical barricades, where some factions use discontent to push their positions, sometimes through protests, sometimes through disruptive acts.
regional and international responses
Argentina, Mexico, Bolivia, and Colombia have expressed deep concern over the events that led to Castillo’s dismissal and arrest. They urged protection of the former president’s rights and stressed that the will of the Peruvian people should be prioritized at the ballot box. The international message stopped short of demanding reinstatement, but it underscored the importance of a peaceful, lawful process as Peru seeks to restore order and legitimacy.