On 30 September, the President of Peru, Martín Vizcarra, dissolved Congress and called for new elections. His decision was based on what he claims was “rampant political corruption.”
In response, Vice President Mercedes Aároz, who had been leading congressional opposition, announced she would move to impeach Mr. Vizcarra for what she said was an illegal action declaring, “I am temporarily assuming the presidency of the republic.”
In response to the growing political tensions, thousands of Peruvians took to the streets… on opposing sides.
With poll numbers showing between 50 and 60 percent support the President’s anti-corruption push, not only are the majority of protesters pro-Vizcarra, it is reported the majority of military and police have voiced loyalty to him as well.
President Vizcarra has called for new elections in January 2020.