In a major political shake-up, Peru’s President Dina Boluarte has been removed from office after months of scandals, corruption claims, and growing anger from the public.
The late-night vote by Peru’s Congress ended her troubled time as president, marking another chapter in the country’s long history of political chaos.
Why Dina Boluarte Was Removed
Congress voted to impeach Boluarte on grounds of “permanent moral incapacity.” This phrase means lawmakers believed she no longer had the honesty and moral standing needed to lead the nation.
Boluarte has been under investigation for several serious issues:
- Bribery and corruption related to luxury Rolex watches and jewelry.
- Human rights abuses connected to the deadly crackdown on protesters in 2022.
- Neglect of duty after she allegedly left her office for cosmetic nose surgery without telling Congress or officially handing over power.
She denied all allegations and refused to attend the session where the vote was held.
Who Is the New Interim President?
After Boluarte’s removal, José Jerí, the 38-year-old President of Congress, took over as interim president. Under Peru’s constitution, he must now call for new elections to choose the next leader.
Jerí promised to bring stability and safety back to the country, which has been struggling with both political and security crises.
A Pattern of Political Instability
Boluarte is not the first Peruvian president to face removal. In fact, since the year 2000, seven presidents have been accused, tried, or removed due to corruption or human rights violations.
Peru has seen presidents resign, face jail, or even take their own lives after scandals. Many people say this shows how deep corruption and mistrust run in the country’s political system.
The Major Scandals
When Boluarte became president in 2022 after Pedro Castillo was impeached, she was praised as Peru’s first female president. But her image quickly faded due to a series of scandals:
- Rolexgate: She was accused of receiving luxury watches and jewelry as bribes.
- Protest Crackdown: More than 60 people were killed during protests after Castillo’s removal.
- Nose Surgery Controversy: She was accused of secretly taking time off for cosmetic surgery while still in office.
Even political allies who once supported her turned against her, calling for her removal.
Peru’s Growing Crime Crisis
The decision to remove Boluarte also came during a crime wave that left Peruvians feeling unsafe. Murders, extortion, and gang violence have increased sharply in recent months.
The government declared a state of emergency in the capital Lima and nearby regions after the killing of a popular musician shocked the nation. Many blamed Boluarte’s government for failing to control the situation.
Quick Summary
| Issue | Details | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Reason for removal | “Permanent moral incapacity” | Loss of trust and credibility |
| Corruption claims | Rolex watches, jewelry, luxury gifts | Sparked public anger |
| Protest deaths | Over 60 people killed in 2022 unrest | Human rights concerns |
| Nose surgery case | Left office without approval | Accused of neglecting duty |
| Interim president | José Jerí | Must call new elections |
| Current crisis | Rising crime and violence | Led to state of emergency |
What Happens Next
Under the law, José Jerí will act as president until new elections are held. Political experts say Peru now faces the tough challenge of restoring trust in government and improving safety on its streets.
Citizens are calling for leaders who are honest, transparent, and willing to reform the system. Many hope this crisis will push Peru toward real political change.
The removal of Dina Boluarte marks another turning point in Peru’s unstable political story. From Rolexgate to bribery claims and human rights accusations, her downfall highlights how deep corruption runs in the nation’s leadership.
Now, interim president José Jerí faces the difficult task of rebuilding both public trust and national security. Peruvians are watching closely, hoping this time, their country can finally move toward a more honest and peaceful future.
