US lauds Peruvian institutions for 'safeguarding democratic stability'

By Michael Hernandez

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US commended Peru's institutions and civil authorities on Tuesday "for safeguarding democratic stability" amid ongoing political tumult triggered by the ouster of the country's former leader.

"The people of Peru deserve stable democratic institutions that follow Peru's Constitution and carry out the mandate of democratic governance," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters.

"We are troubled by scattered reports of violent demonstrations and by reports of attacks on the press and private property, including businesses. We support peaceful assembly, freedom of expression, including from members of the press, and we encourage Peruvians to express their grievances through peaceful protests, and democratic channels," he added.

The comments come in the wake of the removal of former President Pedro Castillo from power and the inauguration of Dina Boluarte as the new head of state.

Castillo was arrested and removed by lawmakers on Dec. 7, the same day he attempted to dissolve Congress.

Castillo's supporters have led mass demonstrations demanding the resignation of Boluarte and new elections.

Protesters have blocked roads with rocks and logs and burned tires, interrupting traffic along the Southern Pan-American Highway that connects Peru and Chile. There have also been reports of police kidnappings. The local media in Andahuaylas reported that police were firing long guns.

Although Boluarte proposed early Monday to hold elections in April 2024 instead of April 2026, her statements failed to defuse tensions that have escalated in the South American country since the ouster of leftist leader Castillo.

Protests have taken place in several cities in calling for the release from prison of Castillo.

Boluarte has declared a state of emergency in areas where protests have erupted.