Peru Extends State Of Emergency Amid Political Unrest

clashes between protesters and security forces

LIMA, Feb 11 (NNN-ANDINA) – Peru has extended the state of emergency in several regions, to deal with the two-month political turmoil, that has claimed dozens of lives, in clashes between protesters and security forces.

A mandate, published in the official newspaper, El Peruano, yesterday said, the measure will be extended by 60 days, due to “continued terrorist activities and other illegal acts.”

The measure was imposed in 44 districts across the country, for the armed forces to continue their operations. It suspends constitutional rights, such as, freedom of assembly and authorises the military, with the support of the police, to restore public order during the emergency.

The political unrest in the country began, following the impeachment and arrest of former President, Pedro Castillo, on Dec 7, and the swearing-in of Vice President Dina Boluarte, to replace Castillo.

Nationwide clashes between Castillo’s supporters and security forces have left over 60 deaths.