On 18/2, Peru's Congress elected leftist legislator Jose Maria Balcazar as interim president in a televised vote. The 83-year-old lawyer and former judge will also serve as head of congress. This election ended a power vacuum in Peru that had lasted over 24 hours.

Balcazar is the 8th president in Peru over the past decade, highlighting a period of significant political instability. During this time, four presidents faced impeachment, two resigned to avoid a similar fate, and only one completed their full term.

The interim president pledged transparent elections, consistent macroeconomic policies, and a prudent monetary policy to ensure economic stability. He also vowed to refocus efforts on combating organized crime. Peru plans to hold presidential elections on 12/4, with Balcazar leading until his successor takes office on 28/7.

Balcazar addresses Peru's parliament after being elected interim president on 18/2. Photo: AFP

Balcazar's predecessor, 39-year-old Jose Jeri, was removed from office by Peru's Congress on 17/2. He faced suspicions of irregular hiring practices for several women in government and corruption allegations linked to a Chinese businessman. Jeri has declared his innocence.

Jeri had become Peru's interim leader after his predecessor, Dina Boluarte, the nation's first female president, was impeached in 10/2025. This occurred amid widespread protests against corruption and violence linked to organized crime.

Despite launching a tough campaign against crime and gaining some public support, former interim president Jeri could not avoid removal from office.

Pham Giang (According to AFP, AP)