Peru: Protests and roadblocks reported across country following arrest of President Pedro Castillo and transfer of power Dec. 7 /update 3

Event

Protests and roadblocks are likely across Peru over the coming days following the arrest of President Pedro Castillo and his removal from office Dec. 7. As of Dec. 9, protesters demanding the dissolution of Congress and new elections have notably blocked parts of the Pan-American Highway near Ica and Paracas and staged demonstrations in Arequipa, Cajamarca, Ica, and Tacna. The protests have caused major transport delays on the Pan-American Highway, and interprovincial bus companies have mostly suspended their operations, especially on routes south of Lima. Supporters of Castillo have also held similar protests in Ayacucho, Cusco, and Puno departments.

Additional demonstrations are likely throughout the country and especially in Lima, where protesters are likely to gather at Plaza San Martin. From there, demonstrators may attempt to march to the Congress building on Avenida Abancay. Marches to Congress often turn violent once they reach Avenida Abancay as police typically deploy tear gas to prevent the protesters from reaching the building.

Police have heavily deployed to protest locations, occasionally attempting to forcibly disperse the demonstrations; protesters have thrown rocks and debris in retaliation. Further clashes between protesters and police, as well as between supporters of rival political parties, cannot be ruled out. Protest-related disruptions to transport and business are likely to continue over the coming days.

Context

Castillo's Dec. 7 arrest and removal from office came just hours after he announced that he would unconstitutionally dissolve Congress, establish a new emergency government, and implement a nationwide curfew. Following Castillo's arrest, Vice President Dina Boluarte was sworn in as the new president, effectively nullifying Castillo's earlier announcement. While Boluarte initially said that she would serve out the rest of Castillo's term, she has since qualified her remarks, suggesting that she may call for fresh elections.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Do not attempt to navigate around protester-erected roadblocks; wait for the police to dismantle them or take alternative routes. Heed the instructions of security personnel. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.