In brief
In a series of clashes between young protesters and police in Lima, Peru, demonstrators expressed their discontent with corruption and insecurity in the country. Over the weekend, at least 18 protesters were reported injured as the movement, dubbed the 'Gen Z march', drew attention to pressing issues such as pension reforms and rampant extortion. Amid the violence, human rights groups criticized police actions, highlighting the ongoing dissatisfaction with the presidency of Dina Boluarte.
Police and young anti-government protesters clashed in the Peruvian capital, Lima, over the weekend. A rights group reported that at least 18 protesters had been injured during demonstrations held on Saturday and Sunday, which were organized under the banner of the 'Gen Z march'. A police officer was also injured in the confrontations.
Groups of young people, mostly under 30, were joined by bus and taxi drivers marching towards Congress to voice their anger regarding corruption scandals and rising insecurity. Some protesters resorted to throwing stones and other projectiles, prompting police to respond with tear gas and rubber bullets, as reported by AFP news agency.
The protests erupted following a pension reform passed earlier this month, which mandates young individuals to contribute to a private pension fund. The approval rating for President Dina Boluarte has been in single digits for months, and many Peruvians are calling for her departure.
'We are marching against corruption, for life, and against the crime that is killing us every day,' said 28-year-old Adriana Flores. The protests also saw participation from transport workers who claim the government is failing to address extortion by gangs, including the Tren de Aragua from Venezuela.
Taxi and bus drivers alleged that gangs threaten them for 'protection money' while accusing the police of neglecting widespread extortion. Many protesters held signs demanding 'a life without fear'. Human rights organizations condemned the police's response, arguing that the use of tear gas and violent measures was unjustified.
Marching towards Congress, the protesters chanted for a united Peru and sang the national anthem. There is a widespread sentiment among the population that Congress does not represent their interests adequately, especially as public officials have been observed increasing their salaries despite mounting public discontent.
As the protests continue to gain momentum, tensions between the government and the public remain high, with further demonstrations anticipated in response to perceived governmental failures.
