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Peru Faces Political Upheaval After President's Impeachment

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 2:17 GMT by Asia One
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Lima, Peru - February 19th, 2026 - Peru is navigating a period of intense political and social upheaval following the impeachment and arrest of President Pedro Castillo on Wednesday. Jose Balcazar, the second vice president of Congress, was swiftly installed as interim president, triggering both cautious optimism and widespread protests across the Andean nation. The events mark a dramatic escalation of a long-simmering power struggle and raise serious questions about Peru's fragile democratic institutions.

Castillo, a leftist former schoolteacher who unexpectedly won the presidency in 2021, attempted to dissolve Congress and establish a ruling by decree. This move, widely condemned as an attempted coup d'etat, ultimately led to his removal from office and subsequent arrest. The swiftness of the Congressional response - the vote to impeach and install a successor occurring within hours - highlights the deep divisions and lack of political consensus that have plagued Peru for years.

The immediate aftermath of Castillo's actions has been marked by unrest. Protests erupted in several major cities, including Lima, Arequipa, and Cusco, with demonstrators clashing with police. Reports indicate injuries and arrests, and the potential for further escalation remains high. These demonstrations are fueled by a complex mix of factors: support for Castillo among his rural base, anger at the perceived political elite who orchestrated his removal, and underlying socio-economic grievances that predate his presidency.

Balcazar, in a brief televised address, called for national unity and urged citizens to refrain from violence. He acknowledged the gravity of the situation and pledged to uphold the constitution. However, his assumption of the presidency is far from a solution. He faces the daunting task of restoring stability, addressing the immediate security concerns, and guiding the nation towards new elections - all while navigating a deeply polarized political landscape.

A History of Instability

Castillo's presidency was characterized by persistent instability and political infighting. He faced multiple impeachment attempts stemming from allegations of corruption and a perceived lack of competence in governing. While these attempts failed during his term, they eroded public trust and deepened the rift between the executive and legislative branches. Observers have pointed to Castillo's inexperience and his reliance on a close circle of advisors as contributing factors to his political isolation.

The roots of Peru's political instability run much deeper than Castillo's tenure. Over the past decade, the country has seen a revolving door of presidents, plagued by corruption scandals and political maneuvering. This pattern has fostered a sense of disillusionment among citizens and eroded faith in democratic institutions. The current crisis is, therefore, not simply a consequence of Castillo's actions, but a symptom of a larger, systemic problem.

Economic Challenges and Social Unrest

The political turmoil comes at a critical time for Peru, which is already grappling with significant economic challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted the economy, and rising inflation is exacerbating social inequalities. Many Peruvians, particularly in rural areas, face poverty and limited access to essential services. These socio-economic grievances have fueled the protests and added another layer of complexity to the current crisis.

What Lies Ahead?

Balcazar is expected to name a new cabinet in the coming days, a move that will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers. The composition of the cabinet will signal his approach to governing and his willingness to reach out to different political factions. Crucially, the timing and manner of the next elections will also be pivotal. A fair and transparent electoral process is essential to restore legitimacy and prevent further instability.

The international community has largely condemned Castillo's attempt to dissolve Congress and has expressed support for the constitutional order. However, concerns remain about the human rights situation in Peru and the need for authorities to exercise restraint in dealing with protesters. The Organization of American States (OAS) has offered to mediate talks between the government and opposition groups, but the prospects for dialogue remain uncertain.

Peru stands at a crossroads. The impeachment of Castillo and the installation of Balcazar represent a turning point, but the path forward is fraught with challenges. Whether the country can overcome its political divisions, address its economic woes, and restore stability will depend on the actions of its leaders and the willingness of its citizens to engage in constructive dialogue. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the future of Peru.