🔗 Share this article

The nation will soon declare a state of emergency after one fatality occurred and numerous law enforcement personnel sustained injuries in widespread protests against the newly installed president, inaugurated only a few days prior.

Government Response

The nation's premier announced Thursday evening that authorities would enact emergency protocols for the capital imminently and is preparing a package of measures to tackle rising insecurity.

Wednesday evening's demonstration – organized by youth activists, transportation unions, and civic organizations – represented the most recent in ongoing protests targeting graft and increasing lawlessness, culminating in the sudden removal of the previous administration.

Demonstration Developments

Mass gatherings formed nationwide, with significant confrontations occurring at the legislative building. Law enforcement deployed crowd control measures while demonstrators launched pyrotechnics, projectiles, and incendiary devices.

"Everyone must go!" protesters chanted upon arriving at the legislature and tried to tear down metal barriers protecting the building.

Casualties and Investigation

A 32-year-old man, Eduardo Mauricio Ruiz, was killed during the protest and authorities pledged to examine the circumstances, stated a human rights representative, a representative from the country's ombudsman's office. The nation's judicial authorities said Ruiz died after being shot.

Official Statements

The president conveyed sorrow regarding the fatality through social media channels, saying the death would be "objectively" investigated. He attributed the unrest to "criminal elements exploiting peaceful protests".

"The full force of the law will be on them," he affirmed.

After attending a meeting about the protests at congress, Jerí said he would ask congress for "authority to legislate on public safety issues".

Planned Changes

The administration identified correctional system overhaul as a priority, but did not elaborate on what those powers would entail.

Recently installed security chief Vicente Tiburcio told the unicameral congress that authorities would pursue extensive law enforcement restructuring, noting significant injury counts among both officers and citizens and 11 people were detained.

Political Context

The recent demonstrations served as an indicator for the new administration's trajectory – concluding with upcoming electoral proceedings – could play out.

Jerí, 38 has promised to make crime his top priority but has faced a number of scandals, including corruption allegations and a now-shelved investigation for sexual assault. The president refuted all allegations and pledged full cooperation with oversight proceedings.

Previous Administration

The previous administration faced widespread protests after she assumed power in late 2022, resulting in multiple fatalities and a plunge in her popularity levels, registering minimal public support before removal.

Congress – which was headed by Jerí before he became president faces comparable public disapproval, registering minimal constituent support.