Peru’s capital, Lima, saw violent anti-government protests over the weekend as hundreds of citizens, mostly young people, clashed with the police.
The protest was part of growing anger over corruption, organized crime, and a new pension reform law that many believe is unfair to workers. Police fired tear gas, while protesters threw stones and sticks, turning the city centre into a tense battlefield.
Why the Protests Started
The demonstration was led by a youth group called “Generation Z.” They called on citizens to stand up against what they describe as a government that is becoming less democratic and more corrupt.
According to protesters, Congress and the government have lost credibility and no longer represent the people’s voice.
A protester named Gladys, 54, said, “Today, there is less democracy than before. It’s getting worse because of fear and extortion.”
Another demonstrator, Celene Amasifuen, criticized the lawmakers, saying, “Congress has no credibility. It is wreaking havoc in this country.”
What Happened During the Protest
Around 500 people gathered in Lima’s historic centre, demanding political reforms. When they tried to reach the government and congressional buildings, police blocked the way.
The clash began soon after.
Protesters threw stones and wooden sticks, while the police used tear gas and pellets to control the crowd. A local radio reporter and a cameraman were injured, and three police officers were reported hurt.
The atmosphere in Lima turned chaotic, and many streets had to be closed for several hours. People were told to stay indoors as the situation grew more violent.
Reasons Behind the Anger
Many Peruvians are unhappy with how their government is running the country. Here are the main reasons that pushed people to protest:
- Corruption in politics – Citizens believe that many politicians use power for personal gain.
- Rising crime and extortion – People face daily fear due to gang activities and weak law enforcement.
- Unfair pension reform – A new law requires young adults to join private pension funds even though many work in unstable jobs without security.
President Dina Boluarte, whose term ends next year, has seen her approval rating fall sharply. Many Peruvians think she is not doing enough to stop corruption and crime.
Who Is Involved
Simple overview of key groups involved:
| Group / Person | Role or View |
|---|---|
| Generation Z (Youth collective) | Organizers of the protest, calling for justice and democracy |
| Police | Tried to stop protesters from entering government areas |
| Congress | Passed the pension reform law that caused public anger |
| President Dina Boluarte | Facing criticism for rising crime and corruption |
| Ordinary citizens | Joined protests to demand fairness and reforms |
The Bigger Picture
Peru has faced political instability for years, with several presidents accused of corruption. This protest is not just about pensions — it’s a call for honesty and better governance. Many Peruvians feel that their voices are ignored and that democracy is getting weaker.
Experts believe that if the government does not respond with fair reforms, the protests may continue or even spread to other cities. The unrest is also affecting the country’s economy, as tourism and public services in Lima were temporarily disrupted.
What Happens Next
The government might be forced to review the pension law and open talks with youth groups to reduce tension. There are also growing calls for early elections and stronger anti-corruption measures.
For now, the streets of Lima remain under tight police control. However, the message from the protesters is clear — Peruvians want a cleaner and fairer government that listens to its people.
The protests in Lima show that the people of Peru, especially the youth, are no longer willing to stay silent. They are standing up for democracy, justice, and transparency. Whether or not the government listens will decide if Peru can move toward peace or face more unrest in the future.
