Peru: Congress vote to impeach president November 9

Event

Peru's Congress voted to oust President Martin Vizcarra on Monday, November 9, over allegations of corruption. A large majority of the opposition-dominated Congress approved the motion of impeachment; the motion was supported by 105 votes out of 130, well over the 87 required to remove the head of state. Head of Congress Manuel Merino will assume the office of President until the end of July 2021; a swearing-in ceremony will be held at 17:00 (local time) on Tuesday, November 10.

Following the announcement of Vizcarra's removal from power, protesters gathered in Lima's Plaza San Martin. Further protests are likely in the capital and other major urban centers in the near term over the impeachment.

Context

This was the second vacancy motion against Vizcarra and follows accusations he received bribes over infrastructure projects whilst he was governor of Moqeugua between 2011 and 2014. Vizcarra has denied the accusations and cited a lack of proof in the allegations. The Attorney General's Office is investigating the allegations.

Advice

Those in Peru, particularly in Lima, are advised to monitor the situation, avoid any associated protests as a precaution, and adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.