Peru’s President faces calls to resign after two protesters were killed

Peru’s interim president Manuel Merino is now under pressure to resign after violent crackdown on protests against his new government left at least two people and more than 60 injured.

Thousands took to the streets to protest against Merino following the removal of his predecessor, Martin Vizcarra, who was impeached on corruption allegations on Monday November 9.

The mostly young protesters gathered in various cities to oppose what they call a parliamentary coup against ousted president Vizcarra.  The largest march in Lima attracted thousands of people, with police again using tear gas fired from helicopters to disperse protesters who were threatening to march towards the Congress building.

Congress head Luis Valdez said in a statement to Channel N television; 

“I ask Mr Merino to evaluate his immediate resignation.”

According to statement shared on the Congress’ Twitter account, it was gathered that lawmakers will meet in an emergency session at 8am (13:00 GMT). 

The Ombudsman’s Office said the first fatality, a 25-year-old man, was killed by pellet shots to the head and face. The health ministry said 94 people were hospitalised with injuries sustained during the protests.

Police reported two deaths, while the National Human Rights Coordinator indicated it was investigating whether there were four.