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Lima, Peru – In a dramatic turn of events, the Peruvian Congress voted to remove President José Jerí from office on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, just four months after he assumed the presidency. The decision, approved with 75 votes in favor, 24 against, and three abstentions, marks the eighth change in Peru’s leadership in nearly a decade, highlighting the country’s ongoing political instability. The move comes less than two months before scheduled general elections in April.
Jerí, who ascended to the presidency in October 2025 after the impeachment of Dina Boluarte, faced a motion of censure citing “functional misconduct and unsuitability to hold office” following a political trial. The removal of Jerí underscores the deep divisions within Peruvian politics and the challenges facing the nation as it prepares for another electoral cycle. Peru has seen a rapid succession of leaders, becoming a stark example of political volatility in Latin America.
Impeachment Process and Congressional Action
The congressional vote followed a period of scrutiny regarding Jerí’s conduct. Fernando Rospigliosi, the acting head of Congress, announced the vacancy of the presidential office, stating, “The board declares the vacancy of the office of President of the Republic.” According to reports, the censure motion stemmed from concerns about Jerí’s interactions with Chinese business leaders, though specific details of those concerns were not immediately available.
The Peruvian Congress will convene on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, to elect a novel head of the legislature, who will then assume the interim presidency until July 28th. This rapid transition of power raises questions about the continuity of government and the ability to address pressing national issues. The process for selecting a new leader is expected to be contentious, reflecting the fragmented political landscape.
A History of Political Turmoil
José Jerí’s brief tenure as president adds to a pattern of instability in Peru. He became the seventh head of state in the last ten years, a statistic that underscores the country’s turbulent political climate. His predecessor, Dina Boluarte, was impeached and removed from office in 2025, following the earlier removal of Pedro Castillo in 2022 after a year and a half in office. Castillo’s attempt to dissolve Congress triggered a political crisis and his subsequent arrest.
This latest development comes amid broader concerns about governance and corruption in Peru. Recent events, including investigations into alleged meetings between President Jerí and Chinese entrepreneurs, have fueled public discontent and contributed to the loss of confidence in political institutions. The ongoing instability threatens to undermine economic growth and social progress.
The situation in Peru continues to evolve rapidly. The election of a new interim president on Wednesday will be a crucial moment, and the upcoming general elections in April will be a key test for the country’s democratic institutions. The challenges facing Peru are significant, and the path forward remains uncertain.
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