José María Balcázar was elected as Peru's 9th president by the Congress on Wednesday, December 18. If he manages to finish his five-month term, he will be one of only two predecessors to have done so in a decade. This pattern of frequent leadership changes highlights the severe political instability in Peru, attributed to a concentration of power in the unicameral legislature and fragmented political parties that indicate signs of ongoing ungovernability.

The uncertainty surrounding Balcázar's interim presidency reflects the broader instability within Peru as the nation prepares for an upcoming presidential election. The next president, who will take office on July 28 after being elected on April 12, faces a similar uncertainty regarding whether they will successfully complete their term. Balcázar is known for his support of legislation to legalize marriage for minors below 14 and is currently under investigation for alleged financial misconduct related to resources from a lawyer's order, which raises questions regarding his governance.

This political turmoil in Peru can be traced back to the legacy of former dictator Alberto Fujimori, whose reign from 1990 to 2000 has left a lasting impact on the country's political landscape. The continuous changes in leadership not only affect the governance and stability of Peru but also present challenges for the nation’s societal progress and development, as citizens grapple with the implications of such rapid transitions in power.