Peru’s Prime Minister Seeks Legislative Powers to Combat Rising Crime and Restore Order

Peruvian Prime Minister Ernesto Alvarez has called on Congress to grant his administration 90 days of legislative powers to implement urgent measures addressing the country’s growing security crisis. The request came during his address to Congress on Wednesday, where he outlined President Jose Jeri’s new government plan following the recent ousting of former President Dina Boluarte.

Alvarez emphasized that restoring public order and strengthening state authority are top priorities for the new administration. “The government views security as a matter of state,” he declared, urging lawmakers to support initiatives aimed at reclaiming control of the streets and rebuilding public trust in law enforcement and justice institutions.

He described the administration’s mission as both political and moral, stating that the government’s immediate task is “to recover the authority of the state, restore order in the streets, and ensure that the law once again becomes the expression of justice and not fear.” His remarks set the tone for a government focused on security reform, crime prevention, and the reinforcement of state institutions weakened by years of political instability.

The request for temporary legislative powers follows the government’s decision to declare a 30-day state of emergency in Lima and the neighboring province of Callao. This measure, announced on Tuesday, seeks to curb a sharp rise in violent crime, including robberies, extortion, and organized criminal activity.

If granted, the legislative powers would allow the Jeri administration to pass new laws aimed at improving policing, judicial efficiency, and public safety. The move underscores Peru’s urgent efforts to stabilize the nation, protect its citizens, and rebuild confidence in state governance amid escalating security challenges.