Anti-government demonstrations in Peru extend to the capital, Lima

A rally against the Peruvian government in the capital, Lima.

EPA

Demonstrations and banditry continued in Peru, where the airport leading to the famous Machu Picchu site was closed “as a precautionary measure,” while protest rallies spread to the capital, Lima.

Thousands took to the streets of Lima on Thursday, in a peaceful protest against the new government and President Dina Pollarte, after weeks of bloody clashes that erupted after the overthrow of former President Pedro Castillo, leaving at least 42 people dead.

The march, organized by trade unions and left-wing groups, took place without incident.

During Thursday's protest, Labor Minister Eduardo García announced his resignation on Twitter, saying the country needed to apologize for the deaths and urging the government to acknowledge that "mistakes have been made and must be corrected."

Garcia said the situation could not remain this way until April 2024, the proposed date for the elections, which comes two years earlier than scheduled.

Prime Minister Alberto Otarola said Pollarte will not resign, citing the necessary constitutional requirements, and "not because she doesn't want to."

"Leaving the presidency will open the door wide to very dangerous chaos and misjudgment," he added.

Demonstrations continued in 10 of Peru's 25 regions, including the cities of Tacna, Moquegua, Puno, Cusco, Abancay, Apurímac, Arequipa, Madre de Dios and Huancavelica, in the south and east of the country, as well as in San Martin in the north.

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