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Peruvian President Dina Boluarte has called for a “great national reconciliation” in response to recent protests in the country. However, during her speech before Congress, Boluarte also requested that legislative powers be extended to the executive branch for 120 days to address issues such as crime. She argued that these measures were necessary for Peru to effectively combat delinquency and crime.
Boluarte acknowledged the challenges facing her administration, including political, social, and climatological crises. As she addressed Congress, demonstrators outside faced tear gas in the capital city of Lima. This speech marked her first Independence Day holiday as president.
Since assuming office in December, Boluarte’s administration has faced intense protests and calls for her resignation, the dissolution of Congress, and early elections. In response, security forces have attempted to suppress the demonstrations, sometimes using live ammunition. Over 60 people have died in the clashes, raising concerns about human rights abuses.
Much of the criticism has been directed at Boluarte herself. However, in her speech, she apologized to the families of the protesters and police who lost their lives, acknowledging the pain caused by the state’s actions.
There has been speculation that Congress will grant Boluarte the additional powers she has requested, although some fear this could lead to further political repression. Journalist and historian Javier Farje believes that an “unholy alliance” between the right and left in Congress is supporting Boluarte and preventing early elections. Both Boluarte and Congress have low approval ratings due to their handling of the protests and political instability.
To improve her approval ratings, Boluarte unveiled policy proposals during her speech. These include investments in infrastructure and the construction of six new hospitals, primarily in rural areas. However, doubts have been raised about whether the government can secure the necessary funding and whether these proposals will ultimately appease the public.
In addition to her infrastructure plans, Boluarte suggested the possibility of returning to a bicameral Congress. Peru currently has a unicameral Congress, which was established in the 1990s by former President Alberto Fujimori. Boluarte’s proposal would involve relaunching the Senate, with members elected from a single national district. However, there are mixed reactions to this proposal, and it remains to be seen if it will gain political support.
Overall, President Boluarte’s speech emphasized the need for national reconciliation while also addressing the issues of crime and delinquency. However, there are concerns about the government’s response to protests, its ability to deliver on proposed policies, and the potential impact of granting extended powers to the executive branch.
