Peru-Dissolving A Coup

 

PERU

A Dissolving Coup

The interim president of Peru, Manuel Merino, stepped down Sunday amid nationwide fury over the killing of two protesters in a brutally heavy-handed police crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrations over the weekend, the Guardian reported.

In a televised address to the nation, Merino resigned even as he said he acted within the law. He was sworn in Tuesday.

News of the resignation was met by the sound of honking car horns, pot banging and cheers across Lima.

Two young men in their 20s died and more than 30 were wounded in Lima Saturday during mass demonstrations over the controversial impeachment of Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra last week, seen by many as a coup. Peruvian lawmakers impeached Vizcarra over unproven bribery allegations and his handling of the coronavirus pandemic. He was removed from office.

Former Parliament Speaker Merino, a little-known politician with a questionable track record, replaced the popular president, causing an uproar that sparked some of the largest demonstrations in more than a decade.

Protesters wanted Merino’s resignation. Human rights organizations have condemned the government’s heavy-handed tactics, which included the use of batons, teargas and water cannons, and the firing of buckshot at peaceful demonstrators.

Peru’s human rights coordinator reported that more than 40 people were missing following Saturday’s march. The health ministry reported that more than 90 people were being treated for injuries.