Peru’s Congress censured and removed President José Jerí four months into his term by a 75-24 vote with three abstentions, after undisclosed meetings with a Chinese businessman sparked the upheaval.

Officials plan to appoint a new interim leader as the country nears general elections, with Balcazar, 83, set to remain in office until the current presidential term ends in late July 2026.

Balcazar, a left-wing lawmaker, is expected to stabilize markets, preserve public order, and oversee credible elections, amid heightened scrutiny from rivals, civil society, and investors.

The transition has drawn divided reactions, with some backing Balcazar and others criticizing the move as政治 opportunism that could deepen distrust ahead of the April 12 election.

Observers criticize the governance response, noting a lack of substantive measures to address crime, corruption, and public concerns during the upheaval.

The reporting notes that updates include inputs from agencies, underscoring the collaborative sourcing of information.

Policy discussions emphasize forming a coalition with diversified finance, clean procurement, and nearshoring tied to U.S. markets to deliver faster, more sustainable benefits than reliance on external powers.

Beijing’s influence is framed as offering rapid financing and market access but raises sovereignty risks and concerns over opaque contracting and leverage over assets and logistics.

The article is subscriber-only, in line with Le Monde’s reader restrictions requiring account login.

Alva’s family has agro-export interests, notably asparagus to the United States; Acuña is a political figure seeking support within the Alliance for Progress.

Balcázar defends past comments on child marriage as taken out of context and reiterates opposition to pardoning Pedro Castillo.

Ruth Luque advocates a leadership transition focused on public interest and security, criticizing hidden agendas and influence-peddling during the changeover.