Peru continues to grapple with a deepening security crisis despite emergency measures from President Dina Boluarte. The declaration of a state of emergency aimed at curbing violence remains ineffective, questioning the government’s strategic planning and raising concerns over corruption within its ranks. Public discontent grows alongside rising homicide rates, leading to broader discussions about governance and accountability in Peru.
Peru is experiencing an escalating security crisis, exacerbated by the government’s emergency measures, which have proven ineffective against rising violence. President Dina Boluarte’s actions are met with skepticism amidst soaring crime rates and rampant corruption, undermining prospects for effective governance.
In an effort to mitigate violence, Boluarte declared a state of emergency in Lima and Callao on March 17, following the murder of popular singer Paul Flores, known as “El Russo”. This 30-day emergency measure allows police to maintain public order with military support while suspending essential constitutional rights such as freedom of movement and assembly.
Despite these stringent measures, violence persists with multiple homicides reported since the declaration, questioning the integrity of the government’s security approach. This action follows a similar declaration made in September 2024, which arose from concerns among transport workers about extortion, indicating a lack of strategic planning against organized crime.
Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez is a focal point of this crisis, facing three censure motions in Congress that could be debated soon. With considerable political opposition seeking his removal, he risks becoming the seventh Interior Minister to be ousted under Boluarte’s administration.
The Fuerza Popular party publicly criticized Santiváñez, asserting that his strategies have failed to address the security crisis effectively. Although polls indicate a disapproval rating of 79% for Santiváñez, Boluarte’s steadfast support for him raises questions, particularly since both face legal challenges.
The state of emergency was initiated following the brutal assassination of Flores, where his band was attacked post-concert, despite prior extortion threats. Boluarte’s alarming comment about possibly considering the death penalty for such crimes has further fueled concerns regarding her government’s lack of a coherent approach to security.
The Human Rights Ombudsman has challenged the effectiveness of emergency measures, emphasizing that previous states of emergency have not significantly reduced crime. The Ombudsman has called for evidence-based policies in lieu of politically motivated responses.
Statistics illustrate a dire situation, with over 2,000 homicides recorded in 2024, and troubling trends in major cities regarding extortion and gang violence, especially from groups like the Venezuelan “Tren de Aragua”. Meanwhile, Minister Santiváñez faces allegations of corruption, including soliciting bribes to influence judicial outcomes, with substantial evidence reportedly available.
Boluarte has opted to protect her minister amid these accusations, describing them as political harassment. Her approval rating has plummeted to just 5%, and her absence from international forums during this crisis has intensified criticism regarding her leadership.
The government’s response to the crisis leans towards authoritarianism, allowing security forces excessive powers that might infringe upon civil liberties. This troubling approach raises alarm about potential abuses during emergencies while reports suggest a lack of real security presence in critical areas of Lima at the onset of the latest emergency.
Peru’s security dilemma is part of a broader regional trend seen in neighboring countries grappling with organized crime. However, the Peruvian government’s reliance on reactive measures, rhetoric sans substance, and pervasive corruption cast doubt on its capability to resolve the ongoing crisis effectively.
As the political landscape prepares for discussions surrounding Santiváñez’s future, Peru faces daunting questions about overcoming entrenched violence and corruption. With Boluarte’s continued leadership, prospects for improvement seem increasingly grim.
In conclusion, Peru faces a troubling security crisis characterized by ineffective emergency measures and widespread corruption. As violence escalates and public discontent grows, the government’s reliance on reactionary strategies raises concerns about its ability to restore safety and earn public trust. The current political dynamics, particularly surrounding Interior Minister Juan José Santiváñez, further complicate the nation’s path forward, leaving much uncertainty about Peru’s ability to address the systemic issues of crime and governance under President Boluarte’s administration.
Original Source: www.intellinews.com
