Peru will debate the removal of José Jerí, accused of "influence peddling"
The Peruvian Congress will debate a motion on February 17 for the removal of interim president José Jerí, who faces investigations for influence peddling.
On February 17, the Congress of Peru is set to discuss a motion for censure and the potential removal of interim president José Jerí. He is currently under investigation by the prosecutor's office due to allegations of influence peddling. Jerí took office on October 10 after the ousting of president Dina Boluarte in a rapid political trial, which occurred during unprecedented mass protests linked to a surge in extortion and contract killings in the country.
Criticism of Jerí's leadership has intensified as he faces up to seven censure requests from the minority left opposition and a coalition of right-wing parties that argue he is unfit to govern due to alleged misconduct and inability to manage the ongoing political crisis. The temporary president of Congress, Fernando Rospigliosi, has announced that an extraordinary plenary session will be called to discuss the censure motion, highlighting the increasing tension in Peru's political landscape.
This situation raises critical questions about the stability of Jerí's presidency and the effectiveness of the Peruvian Congress amidst a backdrop of public discontent. The potential removal of Jerí could lead to further political upheaval in Peru, as the country is still reeling from the effects of a prior leadership change and ongoing protests. Thus, the upcoming debate is watched closely as it may significantly impact both governance and public trust in political institutions.