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Peru's political turbulence intensified Tuesday as Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzén abruptly stepped down, just hours before facing a no-confidence vote in Congress. His departure adds another layer to the ongoing crisis engulfing President Dina Boluarte's embattled administration, already weakened by surging crime and waning public trust.
The resignation came amid public outrage following the recent abduction and murder of 13 miners in the southern Apurímac region—an attack attributed to illegal mining gangs. The brutality of the killings shocked the nation and triggered renewed scrutiny of the government's failure to curb organized crime. The Congressional motion of censure was widely expected to pass, signaling a clear collapse of political support for Adrianzén.Adrianzén, who served as Boluarte's third prime minister since she took office in late 2022, offered no extended justification for his resignation. His exit, however, automatically dissolved the entire cabinet, as required by the Peruvian constitution. This forces Boluarte to appoint a new prime minister before reconstituting her team—a task made more complex by plummeting approval ratings and increasing public unrest.
Earlier that same day, Boluarte had already tried to signal change by appointing new ministers of economy, interior, and transport. All three, however, were forced to resign hours later due to Adrianzén's sudden departure. The reshuffle, intended to project control, instead amplified perceptions of disarray. "This government is improvising in the face of national tragedy," said political analyst Rosa María Palacios on Canal N. "It lacks direction and credibility."Public sentiment reflects that assessment. According to a recent Ipsos poll, Boluarte's approval has fallen to just 2%, the lowest recorded for a Peruvian president in two decades. Nationwide protests in March saw demonstrators dressed in white, demanding stronger action against extortion and targeted killings. "No more deaths," read signs held by citizens in Lima's central square.
Crime has become a central political issue. Reports from the Ministry of the Interior show a 32% increase in gang-related extortion cases over the past year. Small business owners and public transport drivers have been primary targets, further fueling social discontent.
With less than a year until general elections, Boluarte's government is struggling to maintain legitimacy. Presidential re-election is constitutionally barred, leaving her with limited time and even fewer allies. The next appointment will be crucial. As political commentator Pedro Tenorio noted, "This isn't just a cabinet crisis—it's a crisis of leadership."
