Peru’s Congress votes to remove President Boluarte as crime grips nation

Peru's Congress Votes to Remove President Boluarte Amid Escalating Crime

In a historic and swift decision, Peru’s Congress voted to remove President Dina Boluarte from office late Thursday night, citing her government's inability to curb the nation's escalating crime wave. This marks a significant political shift in a country already grappling with profound instability and public discontent.

The Catalyst: A Concert Shooting in Lima

The immediate trigger for the impeachment was a shooting at a popular cumbia concert in Lima, which left five people injured. The incident intensified public outrage over the government's perceived failure to address the rampant violence affecting daily life. Lawmakers from various political factions, including conservative parties, united in their call for Boluarte's removal. Unlike previous attempts, this motion garnered widespread support across the political spectrum, signaling a rare consensus in a deeply polarized Congress.

The Impeachment Process

Lawmakers presented four separate motions to remove Boluarte, each surpassing the required votes to initiate an impeachment trial. Following these approvals, the president was summoned to appear before Congress to defend herself. However, she failed to attend, leading to an immediate vote. At just past midnight, 124 lawmakers voted in favor of her impeachment, effectively removing her from office.

Rising Crime Rates and Public Frustration

Boluarte's administration has faced mounting criticism for its handling of the nation's security. Government statistics revealed over 6,000 homicides between January and mid-August 2025, along with a nearly 30% increase in extortion cases compared to the previous year. The president partially attributed these issues to illegal immigration and criticized prior governments for lax border policies. Despite these explanations, public frustration reached a boiling point, culminating in widespread protests and calls for her resignation.

A History of Political Turmoil

Boluarte's presidency began in December 2022 after the impeachment of her predecessor, Pedro Castillo. Since then, she has faced numerous challenges, including deadly protests, allegations of corruption, and accusations of excessive use of force. Her approval rating plummeted to critically low levels, between 2% and 4%, reflecting deep-seated dissatisfaction among the populace.

The Path Forward

With Boluarte's removal, Peru faces a period of uncertainty. The country has experienced significant political instability, with six presidents since 2018 and four former leaders currently imprisoned. As general elections approach in April, the nation remains on edge, awaiting the next chapter in its turbulent political landscape.

This unprecedented move by Congress underscores the urgent need for effective governance and a comprehensive strategy to address the escalating crime that has gripped the nation. As Peru navigates this critical juncture, the eyes of the world remain fixed on its path toward stability and reform.

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