At least 18 people, including police officers and journalists, were injured in violent confrontations during anti-government protests in Lima, Peru, over the weekend. The unrest marks a sharp escalation in public dissatisfaction with President Dina Boluarte’s administration, as youth-led movements and civil society groups take to the streets demanding change.
The protest, organized primarily by the youth collective “Generation Z,” erupted Saturday near key government buildings in central Lima. Demonstrators armed with stones and sticks clashed with police forces, who responded with tear gas to prevent the march from advancing toward the presidential and parliamentary buildings, according to AFP reports.
As night fell, the protests intensified, drawing in other opposition groups disillusioned with the government.
Injury Reports:
- The Peruvian National Police initially reported three injured officers, but later revised the number to 12.
- The National Association of Journalists of Peru (ANP) reported that six journalists were injured by police-fired pellets, including two reporters from Exitosa Noticias radio.
- Photojournalist César Zamalloa described police firing directly at protesters and media personnel, claiming he was struck on the leg and hip by pellets.
Both the ANP and the National Human Rights Coordinator in Peru have condemned what they called excessive police repression.
Another day of demonstrations is planned, signaling that public unrest is far from over.
Background & Context:
President Boluarte’s approval ratings have plummeted amid widespread frustration over growing crime, economic insecurity, and controversial legislative actions. Most recently, Congress passed a law requiring young adults to join private pension funds, a move widely criticized given the precarious labor conditions many face.
Public trust in both the presidency and the conservative-controlled Congress remains low, with multiple polls labeling the institutions as deeply corrupt.
As protests continue, Peru appears to be entering another period of political volatility, with mounting pressure on the government to respond to public demands for accountability, reform, and protection of civil liberties.
