Protests against Dina Boluarte deflate one year after Peru’s failed self-coup

One year after they marched in Peru following Pedro Castillo’s failed self-coup and the inauguration of his vice president, Dina Boluarte, as the country’s president, protesters took to the streets again on December 7 with the rallying cry of “Kick all of them out!” People are calling for Boluarte’s resignation, the dissolution of Congress, and the formation of a Constituent Assembly to create a new Constitution. And they’re not happy about the recent release of ex-president Alberto Fujimori from prison.

On the first of four days of demonstrations, everything was calm with no injuries or arrests, but the turnout was smaller than anticipated. The organizers are optimistic that more people will join on the second day — a public holiday — and throughout the weekend. According to Peru’s Ombudsman’s Office, demonstrations were held in 20 provinces across Peru, primarily along the coast and in the southern mountains.

This year, there were no large-scale blockades, and a minor incident in Arequipa was instigated by the government’s change to the penal code imposing 10-15 years of prison for disrupting road traffic, as well as port, railway and airport infrastructure.

One of the most poignant moments took place in Juliaca, where grieving mothers and wives of protesters who were killed by security forces in last year’s demonstrations fervently pleaded for justice. Clad in somber black attire, they clutched photographs of their loved ones. Meanwhile, in Lima, a group of protesters peacefully made their way to Congress in the historic city center, choosing not to engage with the police.

The day began with a public proclamation by President Boluarte declaring December 7 as a day of “institutionality, rule of law, and the defense of democracy,” in reference to Castillo’s self-coup and her inauguration as president. She earnestly called for national unity and encouraged Peruvians to trust in their government and pursue peace. “Peru will forge ahead and our democracy will emerge even stronger,” said Boluarte. “Together, we have the capability to rebuild our nation upon sturdier foundations.” According to recent surveys conducted by Datum Internacional, the president’s approval rating stands at 11%.

The opposition coalition of workers, students and Indigenous communities has struggled through a long year of fruitless demonstrations that resulted in over 60 fatalities during clashes with law enforcement agents.

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