José Balcázar has been elected as the new interim president of Peru after José Jerí was removed from office by the parliament just four months into his term. The dismissal occurred due to a scandal involving Jerí's secret meetings with a Chinese businessman, which raised serious ethical concerns about his leadership. This political shift is notable as Peru prepares for its next elections scheduled for April, where a new president will take office in July 2026, marking a period where Balcázar can serve as a transitional figure in a tumultuous political landscape.

This marks a significant moment in Peru's recent political history, as Balcázar becomes the country’s eighth president in just eight years. The frequent changes in leadership highlight ongoing tensions between the executive branch and Congress, which have struggled to form lasting coalition governments. Political instability has become a hallmark of Peruvian governance, exacerbated by the deep divisions and the challenges faced in reaching consensus on key policy issues.

Moreover, Peru is grappling with rising crime rates, particularly concerning homicides and extortion, which have alarmed citizens and officials alike. The inability of the current leadership to effectively address the crime surge has led to growing dissatisfaction among the public. As Balcázar takes office, he faces the critical task of restoring faith in government while navigating a challenging political and social environment.