Peru Impeaches President Boluarte Amid Unrest

On October 10, 2025, Peru’s Congress removed President Dina Boluarte from office. A late-night session led to the overwhelming vote for her ousting on grounds of “permanent moral incapacity.”

Boluarte’s Response

Boluarte addressed the nation on television after the decision. She questioned the impact on Peru’s democracy. Thus, she called for unity, focusing on the 34 million citizens’ needs.

Unpopularity and Scandals

Boluarte’s approval rating hovered at 2-4%, the lowest globally. Her three-year term was marked by scandals, protests, and rising gang violence, fueling calls for her removal.

Deadly Shooting Sparks Anger

Thursday’s protests escalated after a Lima concert shooting. The incident, killing one, reignited outrage. Thus, it contributed to the momentum for Boluarte’s impeachment.

Overwhelming Majority Vote

122 of 130 lawmakers approved the impeachment. Four motions passed decisively, including conservative allies who once backed her. This ended Boluarte’s presidency abruptly.

Interim Leader Sworn In

Congress leader Jose Jeri was sworn as interim president on October 11, 2025. Peru lacks a vice-president, leaving a leadership vacuum after Boluarte’s ouster.

Protesters Celebrate Outside

Crowds outside Congress cheered the vote, waving Peruvian flags. Thus, the impeachment reflected widespread frustration with Boluarte’s rule.

Rise to Power

Boluarte became president in December 2022 after Pedro Castillo’s impeachment. He tried dissolving Congress to avoid removal. As vice-president, she took over, becoming Peru’s first female leader.

Investigations and Protests

Her term saw a corruption probe over Rolex watches as bribes. Another examined her absence for nose surgery. Protests, killing over 50 in 2023, demanded her resignation.

Salary Controversy

In July 2025, Boluarte doubled her salary to 35 times the minimum wage. This drew scorn, highlighting inequality during her tenure.

Opposition Push

Lawmaker Susel Paredes stated impeachment was essential. Boluarte faced multiple removal attempts before the 2026 elections, with protests intensifying in recent months.

Legacy of Instability

Boluarte is Peru’s sixth leader since 2018. Three former presidents are imprisoned, underscoring political turmoil. Her impeachment adds to the nation’s leadership crises.

Path Forward

Jeri’s interim role stabilizes Peru. Thus, the impeachment opens a chapter for reforms, addressing protests and corruption in 2025.

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