A protest movement in Peru’s southern city of Cuzco intensified this week, with regional health authorities reporting growing casualties amid ongoing anti-government demonstrations. Official tallies from health services indicate that the overall death toll from the protests has reached 48 nationwide. According to statements from a left-wing congressman, the latest deceased is Remo Candia Guevara, who passed away at Antonio Lorena Hospital in Cuzco. Guevara led the Urinsaya Ccollana peasant community in the Anta province and was described as a community leader caught in the unfolding nationwide protests.
Data from the People’s Ombudsman show that 40 protesters have died in direct clashes with security forces, in addition to the death of a police officer. Seven other fatalities have been attributed to traffic incidents and clashes related to road blockages. These figures reflect the gravity of the street confrontations across multiple regions as demonstrators continue to press for political reforms.
In Cuzco, today’s demonstrations focused on the route around Alejandro Velasco Astete international airport, mirroring similar protests at critical infrastructure sites found elsewhere in the country. The initial assessment from the Cuzco Regional Health Administration indicates that 22 individuals sustained injuries during the activities, including six members of law enforcement. Medical teams reported cases of bruising and head injuries requiring transfer to higher-capacity facilities for treatment.
The health authority’s report notes that the injured were transported to facilities including the district hospital, Antonio Lorena Hospital, and Essalud centers. Injuries described include gunshot wounds (PAF), bullet impacts, bruises, and issues related to tear gas exposure. Local media outlets have corroborated the presence of these injuries among those treated in city hospitals and emergency centers.
Protest organizers and participants are calling for major political changes, including the resignation of President Dina Boluarte, the dissolution of Congress, the postponement of general elections to 2023, and the formation of a constituent assembly to redraw the political framework. The mobilizations reflect a broader demand for reforms and a rethinking of governance after a period of intense political upheaval across the nation.