At least 17 people were killed, and over 64 were injured on Monday in Peru after a series of clashes between security forces and protestors opposing President Dina Boluarte’s interim government. The deaths occurred in Juliaca, a city in the southern region of Puno, close to the country’s famous Lake Titicaca.
The clashes came after weeks of tensions following the destitution of President Pedro Castillo in December. The post-crisis death toll has now risen to 39, as human rights organizations such as the Red Cross call for an end to the violence.
The first casualties were confirmed late on January 9 by Health Ministry official Henry Rebaza, who also reported that ambulances had been damaged during the demonstrations. The Peruvian Public Defender’s Office also stated that a newborn child died on the way to the hospital due to the road blockades.
“We request protesters to allow the transit of ambulances and health personnel through humanitarian corridors, in particular of people in vulnerable situations,” the office said. Health Minister Rosa Gutiérrez issued a similar appeal.
The ousting of Mr. Castillo, currently in jail after illegally attempting to close Congress in December in what analysts described as a self-coup, has fuelled social conflicts outside of Peru’s capital.
Despite being extremely unpopular in Lima and having low approval ratings across the country, Mr. Castillo still has many supporters in poorer rural areas. He is currently serving an 18-month pre-trial detention, accused of rebelling against state powers — charges which he denies.
The organizations backing Mr. Castillo generally do not recognize the interim administration of Ms. Boluarte as legitimate, requesting elections be held immediately to replace her.
Last month, the also unpopular Peruvian Congress rejected the idea of holding elections in 2023, scheduling them for April 2024 instead, but political pressure is ramping up to bring that date forward.
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