Peru’s Congress has voted to remove President Dina Boluarte from office, bringing an abrupt end to a turbulent presidency marked by corruption allegations, violent protests, and a worsening crime wave.
According to the NewYork Times news, Lawmakers voted 122-0, with several abstentions, to oust Boluarte on Friday, citing her “permanent moral incapacity” to govern. The vote came after she refused to appear before Congress for an overnight impeachment hearing in Lima.
“The president’s impeachment has been approved,” announced Congress leader Jose Jeri, who is expected to assume interim leadership until new elections in April 2026.
Boluarte, who came to power in December 2022 after the impeachment of her predecessor Pedro Castillo, faced repeated challenges to her legitimacy. Her administration was dogged by corruption probes, public unrest, and accusations of excessive force during anti-government demonstrations that left more than 50 people dead.
Her approval ratings plunged following the so-called “Rolexgate” scandal, in which she was accused of failing to declare luxury watches and jewellery. She also came under fire for approving a large personal pay increase and for her handling of the country’s economic struggles.
In recent months, gang violence and extortion have surged, while protests intensified after a controversial pension reform law passed in September required young workers to contribute to private retirement funds despite widespread unemployment.
Boluarte’s ousting continues Peru’s cycle of political instability, the country has now seen six presidents in just nine years.