José Maria Balcázar Elected Peru’s Interim President Amid Controversy
José Maria Balcázar, an 83-year-old congressman from the left-wing Peru Libre party, has been elected as Peru’s interim president following the impeachment of José Jerí. Balcázar secured the position by winning a run-off vote in Congress with 60 out of 113 votes, defeating María del Carmen Alva. He is scheduled to lead the transitional government until new presidential elections are held on April 12, 2026. This appointment marks the ninth change in presidency within a decade, highlighting Peru's ongoing political instability. While Balcázar pledged to ensure a transparent electoral process, his election has drawn significant criticism due to his controversial past statements supporting child marriage and inappropriate teacher-student relationships. Additionally, reports suggest he may have promised a pardon to imprisoned former president Pedro Castillo to secure votes, a claim Balcázar denies. The new leader also faces personal legal challenges, including investigations for alleged embezzlement and fraud during his time as a provisional Supreme Court judge. His predecessor, Jerí, was removed amid scandals involving alleged influence peddling with Chinese business interests.
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José Maria Balcázar Elected Peru’s Interim President Amid Controversy
José Maria Balcázar, an 83-year-old congressman from the left-wing Peru Libre party, has been elected as Peru’s interim president following the impeachment of José Jerí. Balcázar secured the position by winning a run-off vote in Congress with 60 out of 113 votes, defeating María del Carmen Alva. He is scheduled to lead the transitional government until new presidential elections are held on April 12, 2026. This appointment marks the ninth change in presidency within a decade, highlighting Peru's ongoing political instability. While Balcázar pledged to ensure a transparent electoral process, his election has drawn significant criticism due to his controversial past statements supporting child marriage and inappropriate teacher-student relationships. Additionally, reports suggest he may have promised a pardon to imprisoned former president Pedro Castillo to secure votes, a claim Balcázar denies. The new leader also faces personal legal challenges, including investigations for alleged embezzlement and fraud during his time as a provisional Supreme Court judge. His predecessor, Jerí, was removed amid scandals involving alleged influence peddling with Chinese business interests.
Perú Reports