A timeline of unrest since Peru’s president was removed from power

By Laura Gamba

BOGOTA, Colombia (AA) - More than a month has passed since a series of events in Peru resulted in a wave of violent protests caused by the removal of the former leftist president and the arrival of the new leader.

Here is a brief timeline of the political crisis that is gripping the South American nation.

December 7, 2022

​​​​​​​President Pedro Castillo was ousted and arrested after he attempted to dissolve Congress and rule by decree in an effort to avoid impeachment over allegations of corruption. Vice-president Dina Boluarte was sworn in as Peru's new leader.

December 9, 2022

Peruvians took to the streets to demand the resignation of Boluarte, the release of Castillo, and the celebration of new elections.

December 11, 2022

Protests grew and spread around the country. Two people were killed in clashes between protesters and police in the southern Peruvian city of Andahuaylas. The city's airport was closed after demonstrators tried to storm the terminal.

December 13, 2022

Boluarte announced she would submit a bill to Congress to celebrate elections in April 2024 instead of April 2026.

December 14, 2022

Peru declared a 30-day nationwide state of emergency in the wake of widespread protests that so far left seven people dead.

December 15, 2022

A Supreme Court judge ruled that Castillo would remain in detention for 18 months, after the ex-leader was arrested for the crime of rebellion and conspiracy.

December 17, 2022

The political crisis left thousands of tourists stranded in Cusco, the gateway city to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

January 9, 2023

After having subsided during the Christmas break, anti-government protests resumed on what was the most deadly day so far. At least 18 people died in the southern Puno region in clashes between security forces and demonstrators.

January 11, 2023

Clashes broke out in Cusco, with protesters attempting to enter the airport. The Prosecutor’s Office announced it would open an investigation of Boluarte for the death of 47 people since protests began.

January 12, 2023

A 16-year-old demonstrator, who had been hospitalized for two days, died in Juliaca. Protesters arrived in Lima, which had been spared of violence so far. The country´s labor minister stepped down.

January 13, 2023

Peru’s general attorney launched 11 inquiries to identify those responsible for the civilian deaths.