Peru's Congress Votes to Remove President Dina Boluarte Amid Crime Crisis Chaos

Peru's President Ousted Amid Crime Crisis: A Nation Divided In a dramatic late-night session, Peru's Congress voted to remove President Dina Boluarte from office, plunging the country into uncertainty and sparking widespread protests. The decision, which was met with both jubilation and outrage, marks a turning point in the nation's tumultuous politics. As the clock struck 11:30 PM on Friday, lawmakers gathered for an emergency hearing to discuss the impeachment proceedings against Boluarte. But the president herself was nowhere to be found, opting instead to skip the proceedings altogether. The move only added fuel to the fire, with many seeing it as a brazen attempt to defy the will of the people. The reasons behind Boluarte's ouster are complex and multifaceted. Critics have long accused her of failing to stem the tide of crime that has ravaged Peru in recent years. From gang violence to corruption scandals, the country's institutions have been rocked by a series of high-profile cases. The most recent scandal, dubbed "Rolexgate," centers around Boluarte's alleged failure to declare gifts of luxury jewels and watches. "It's not just about Rolexgate; it's about a broader pattern of behavior that has eroded trust in our government," said José Jerí, the Congress leader who was sworn in as interim president. "We need a fresh start, one that prioritizes transparency and accountability." But Boluarte's supporters argue that she is being unfairly targeted by her opponents. They point to her efforts to address poverty and inequality, which have long plagued Peru. "Boluarte has made significant strides in addressing the root causes of poverty," said Fernando Cáceres, a former ally who now sits on the opposition bench. "Her critics are more interested in scoring political points than in finding solutions." As the country teeters on the brink of chaos, many Peruvians are left wondering what comes next. Will Jerí's interim presidency bring stability and reform? Or will it merely be a stopgap measure until the next election? One thing is certain: Peru's politics have never been more polarized. The impeachment vote has exposed deep divisions within the country, with some calling for Boluarte's immediate arrest while others demand her reinstatement. As the nation struggles to come to terms with its new reality, one question hangs in the air: what does this mean for the future of Peru? For Jerí, the answer is clear. "Today, I humbly assume the presidency of the republic...in order to install and lead a transition that will bring our country back on track." But as he takes the reins, Boluarte's supporters remain defiant, vowing to continue their fight for her reinstatement. In this moment of uncertainty, one thing is clear: Peru's future hangs in the balance. Will it be a path towards stability and reform? Or will it succumb to the same old patterns of corruption and impunity? Only time will tell. *Based on reporting by Theguardian.*