Protests in Peru: Dozens of Deaths and Hundreds Arrested

The number of fatalities due to clashes between law enforcement and anti-government protesters in Peru has reached 60. In many cities across the South American country, participants in large-scale anti-government demonstrations are demanding the resignation of President Dina Boluarte, the release of former President Pedro Castillo, the dissolution of Congress, and the holding of early elections.

On the morning of January 22, police arrested around 200 students at San Marcos University in Lima. Authorities report that students who arrived from various cities in Peru to participate in the protests have set up camps.

At the end of December last year, the Congress of the Republic of Peru voted in favor of holding early elections in April 2024. Pedro Castillo was removed from power by lawmakers, in response to which he announced the dissolution of Congress and the imposition of a state of emergency in the country. Castillo also announced plans to prepare a new Constitution within nine months.

It is noteworthy that the European Union has urged the Peruvian government and political figures to take urgent measures to restore peace in the country, as stated by a spokesperson for the EU's foreign service. Earlier reports indicated that protests in Peru continue, with 120 highways blocked and fatalities among both police and protesters.