Peru's Political Turmoil Continues with New Interim President Amid Controversy
Published 19 February 2026
Highlights
- José María Balcázar has been elected as Peru's interim president following the ouster of José Jerí over a scandal involving undisclosed meetings with a Chinese businessman.
- Balcázar, a member of the left-wing Peru Libre party, is the ninth president since 2016, highlighting ongoing political instability in Peru.
- The interim president has faced criticism for his controversial stance on child marriage and past allegations of embezzlement.
- Peru is set to hold general elections on April 12, with a likely runoff on June 12, as no candidate is expected to secure an outright majority.
- Balcázar's leadership is expected to last until July 28, when a newly elected president will be sworn in.
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Rewritten Article
Peru's Political Turmoil Continues with New Interim President Amid Controversy
Peru has once again found itself in the throes of political upheaval as José María Balcázar assumes the role of interim president following the removal of José Jerí. Jerí was ousted by Congress amid allegations of influence peddling, a charge he has denied, linked to undisclosed meetings with a Chinese businessman. This marks the ninth change in leadership since 2016, underscoring the persistent political instability in Peru.
A Controversial Figure Takes the Helm
Balcázar, an 83-year-old member of the left-wing Peru Libre party, was elected by Congress to lead the nation until a new president is inaugurated on July 28. His election has sparked debate, particularly due to his controversial views on child marriage. Balcázar has previously defended sexual relations between minors and teachers, a stance that has drawn sharp criticism from Peru's women's ministry and human rights organizations. Despite the backlash, Balcázar remains steadfast in his opinions, stating, "I will not change my mind, I am firm in my convictions."
Upcoming Elections Amid Political Instability
The interim president's primary task is to oversee a peaceful transition to the next elected leader. Peruvians are scheduled to vote on April 12, with a runoff expected on June 12, as no candidate is likely to secure the required majority. Current opinion polls suggest a tight race between right-wing Congresswoman Keiko Fujimori and Lima's mayor, Rafael López Aliaga. However, a significant portion of the electorate remains undecided.
Challenges and Criticisms
Balcázar's tenure is not without its challenges. He has been criticized for his opposition to a bill outlawing child marriage, which was passed despite his dissenting vote. Additionally, he faces allegations of embezzlement from his time as head of the Lambayeque bar association, leading to his expulsion in 2022. His leadership comes at a time when public trust in politicians is at a low ebb, exacerbated by the scandal that led to Jerí's removal.
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Scenario Analysis
As Peru navigates yet another political transition, the focus will be on ensuring a smooth electoral process. The upcoming elections are crucial for restoring stability and public confidence in the government. However, Balcázar's controversial past and divisive views may pose challenges to his interim leadership. Political analysts warn that any overreach or deviation from his mandate could further destabilize the country. The international community and local watchdogs will be closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to democratic principles.
Peru has once again found itself in the throes of political upheaval as José María Balcázar assumes the role of interim president following the removal of José Jerí. Jerí was ousted by Congress amid allegations of influence peddling, a charge he has denied, linked to undisclosed meetings with a Chinese businessman. This marks the ninth change in leadership since 2016, underscoring the persistent political instability in Peru.
A Controversial Figure Takes the Helm
Balcázar, an 83-year-old member of the left-wing Peru Libre party, was elected by Congress to lead the nation until a new president is inaugurated on July 28. His election has sparked debate, particularly due to his controversial views on child marriage. Balcázar has previously defended sexual relations between minors and teachers, a stance that has drawn sharp criticism from Peru's women's ministry and human rights organizations. Despite the backlash, Balcázar remains steadfast in his opinions, stating, "I will not change my mind, I am firm in my convictions."
Upcoming Elections Amid Political Instability
The interim president's primary task is to oversee a peaceful transition to the next elected leader. Peruvians are scheduled to vote on April 12, with a runoff expected on June 12, as no candidate is likely to secure the required majority. Current opinion polls suggest a tight race between right-wing Congresswoman Keiko Fujimori and Lima's mayor, Rafael López Aliaga. However, a significant portion of the electorate remains undecided.
Challenges and Criticisms
Balcázar's tenure is not without its challenges. He has been criticized for his opposition to a bill outlawing child marriage, which was passed despite his dissenting vote. Additionally, he faces allegations of embezzlement from his time as head of the Lambayeque bar association, leading to his expulsion in 2022. His leadership comes at a time when public trust in politicians is at a low ebb, exacerbated by the scandal that led to Jerí's removal.
What this might mean
As Peru navigates yet another political transition, the focus will be on ensuring a smooth electoral process. The upcoming elections are crucial for restoring stability and public confidence in the government. However, Balcázar's controversial past and divisive views may pose challenges to his interim leadership. Political analysts warn that any overreach or deviation from his mandate could further destabilize the country. The international community and local watchdogs will be closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to democratic principles.
