Peru’s political landscape shifted dramatically on Friday as lawmakers voted unanimously to impeach President Dina Boluarte, citing “permanent moral incapacity” following mounting criticism over her government’s failure to address rising crime and insecurity.
The vote, held in the early hours of Friday, saw all 118 members of Congress support Boluarte’s removal, marking one of the rare instances of complete legislative consensus in the country’s turbulent political history.
The decision came after weeks of public outrage and escalating violence across major cities. A deadly shooting at a popular cumbia concert earlier this week, which left several people injured, became a flashpoint for widespread anger over the government’s inability to maintain law and order.
Boluarte, who took office in December 2022 following the ouster of former President Pedro Castillo, had faced persistent political scandals, corruption allegations, and steadily declining approval ratings. Opinion polls in recent months placed her among the least popular presidents in Peru’s modern democratic era.
As news of her impeachment broke, crowds gathered outside the National Congress in Lima, waving Peruvian flags and chanting in celebration of the lawmakers’ decision. Inside the chamber, the atmosphere was similarly charged, with legislators applauding as the final votes were counted.
Following Boluarte’s removal, Congress President José Jerí is expected to be sworn in as interim leader. He will oversee the government’s transition ahead of the next general elections, scheduled for April 12, 2026, unless Congress elects a new president from within its ranks before that date.
Analysts say Boluarte’s ouster reflects deep public frustration over Peru’s ongoing political instability and the government’s struggle to restore security and trust in public institutions.
