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Peru swears in interim leader after Jerí's removal
Peru's Congress has named 83-year-old lawmaker José María Balcázar as interim president following the ouster of José Jerí over allegations of influence peddling, which Jerí denies. Balcázar will serve until a new president is sworn in on 28 July.
Balcázar's mandate and election timeline
Balcázar, a member of the left-wing Free Peru party, was elected by Congress to oversee a "peaceful and transparent democratic transition" until the next president takes office. The first round of the presidential election is scheduled for 12 April, but with dozens of candidates competing, a runoff on 12 June is almost certain, as no candidate is expected to secure the required 50% of votes.
Both Jerí and Balcázar are barred from running in the election, as Peruvian law prohibits consecutive terms for former presidents.
Public distrust and political instability
Balcázar assumes office at a time of deep public disillusionment with Peru's political class. The country has had eight presidents since 2016, many of whom were removed by Congress amid corruption scandals. A Lima resident told Reuters, "In 10 years, how many presidents have we had? It's an enormous setback for the country." Another commented, "We're really in a crisis where Congress only dedicates itself to changing the president and looking out for their own well-being."
Controversy surrounding Balcázar
The former judge has faced criticism for opposing a bill that outlawed child marriage, though the legislation was ultimately approved. His appointment comes as trust in politicians plummets further following graft allegations against Jerí.
Jerí's downfall: The 'Chifa-gate' scandal
Jerí was removed from office on Tuesday after Congress voted overwhelmingly in favor of a censure motion. The decision followed revelations of undisclosed meetings with Chinese businessman Zhihua Yang, who was under government scrutiny. Jerí apologized for the meetings but faced suspicion for failing to report them, as required by Peruvian law.
Footage showed Jerí wearing a hooded top during a late-night visit to one of Yang's restaurants. He denied any wrongdoing, calling the allegations a "public smear campaign." However, further scrutiny arose when it emerged that state contracts had been awarded to women following late-night meetings with Jerí at the presidential palace.
"It has been an honor to have served as Peru's president,"
José Jerí, following his removal
Election outlook and key candidates
Opinion polls suggest the leading contenders are right-wing Congresswoman Keiko Fujimori, daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, and Lima Mayor Rafael López Aliaga. However, most Peruvians remain undecided, reflecting the country's fragmented political landscape.
