Following the impeachment of Peru's interim president due to corruption allegations, Jose Maria Balcazar of the center-left has been elected as the new interim president by the Peruvian Congress. Balcazar secured 64 votes in a runoff election against María del Carmen Alva, who received 46 votes. He will serve as interim president and speaker of Congress until the new president takes office in late July. In his acceptance, Balcazar emphasized the commitment to safeguard national sovereignty and the independence of democratic institutions.

The political instability in Peru reflects a deeply rooted issue of corruption, with numerous presidents having been removed from office in recent years. Since January 2018, seven presidents have been ousted or forced to resign. The political cycle continues with upcoming elections for a new president and Congress scheduled for April 12, with provisions for a runoff if no candidate receives a majority vote. The current presidential term lasts five years, and this election comes at a time of heightened scrutiny over political integrity and governance in the country.

Episodes of corruption have plagued recent administrations, leading to frequent power changes. The recent downfall of the former president, who faced impeachment for alleged collusion with a Chinese businessman, is indicative of the ongoing challenges Peru faces in restoring public trust. This political turmoil highlights the urgent need for reforms to address the pervasive corruption that affects the confidence of voters and the stability of the government, as Peru navigates towards the April elections and beyond.