Peruvian President José Jerí is facing potential impeachment proceedings following the release of videos showing him in secret meetings with Chinese businessman Yang Zhihua. The videos, leaked earlier this month, depict Jerí arriving at Xin Yan Restaurant, owned by Yang, on Dec. 26. The footage shows Jerí attempting to conceal his face as he entered the establishment.

A second video surfaced a week later, showing Jerí at one of Yang's corner stores in Lima, reportedly shouting into his phone in front of Yang. These meetings have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, particularly after local media reported that Yang's store had been ordered shut down for violating a municipal ordinance, which was then overturned by a federal regulatory body three days later.

Peru has experienced significant political instability in recent years, with seven presidents in the past decade. None have served longer than three years, and one resigned within a week. Jerí, 39, assumed the presidency last October after the impeachment of his predecessor.

Opposition parties have seized on the leaked videos, arguing that they demonstrate a clear abuse of power and a potential quid pro quo arrangement between Jerí and Yang. "These meetings raise serious questions about the president's integrity and his commitment to upholding the law," stated Congressman Ricardo Flores, a leading voice in the impeachment effort.

Supporters of President Jerí have dismissed the allegations as politically motivated. They argue that the meetings were simply routine interactions with a local business owner and that the overturning of the municipal ordinance was based on its legal merits. "The opposition is trying to create a scandal where none exists," said presidential spokesperson Ana Vargas. "The president is focused on serving the Peruvian people and addressing the country's challenges."

Yang Zhihua has not publicly commented on the matter. However, his lawyer released a statement asserting that Yang has always operated within the bounds of the law and that the meetings with the president were purely social in nature.

The Peruvian Congress is currently reviewing the evidence and considering whether to initiate impeachment proceedings against Jerí. A vote is expected in the coming weeks. The outcome of the vote will determine whether Jerí becomes the latest president to be ousted from office in Peru's turbulent political landscape. The situation is being closely monitored by international observers, who are concerned about the potential impact on Peru's stability and its relationship with China.