Peru - September 2023

On 18 September, President Dina Boluarte announced a state of emergency to take effect the following day, in the Lima districts of Lurigancho and San Martin de Porres, as well as in the district of Sullana in Piura, in order to address an increase in crime. According to officials, while national police will continue to lead in public security, the state of emergency will enable the military to assist in enforcement. As a consequence of the state of emergency, certain rights will be suspended, such as the inviolability of the home and freedom of assembly and movement. 

In early October, the Council of Ministers extended the state of emergency to the districts of Lince and Cercado, in Lima. 

Sources: Gobierno del Peru (1), Gobierno del Peru (2), El Peruano, Reuters, El Pais 

Congress has approved a summary investigation into members of the National Board of Justice (Junta Nacional de Justicia, JNJ), a body entrusted with holding public exams and evaluations for the appointment of judges, prosecutors, and the head of the EMB (Oficina Nacional de Procesos Electorales, ONPE) and the National Citizen’s Registration (Registro Nacional de Identificacion y Estado Civil, RENIEC).  The measure could lead to the removal of the Board’s membership, due to alleged non-compliance with age -requirements, the duty to present an annual report, and allegedly improper statements made regarding an impeachment procedure and a case before the Supreme Court. Members of the JNJ have expressed concern over an investigation they consider ensures them no due process guarantees, a worry echoed by local experts. The UN presence in Peru has further expressed concern over the legislature’s decision, and its implications on the separation of powers and administration of justice.   

Sources: Radio Programas del Peru (1), Radio Programas del Peru (2), United Nations Peru, El Pais