Peru's Congress Dismisses Interim Leader José Jerí Amid Corruption Controversy

Peru’s Congress has voted to dismiss interim President José Jerí, citing his failure to disclose meetings with Chinese businessmen.

This action marks a continuation of political upheaval in Peru, as Jerí's ousting occurs just four months into his presidency, making him the third leader to be removed in recent months.

The controversy known as “Chifa-gate” erupted following the release of videos showing Jerí meeting with businessman Zhihua Yang, who was already under investigation by the government. Security footage displayed Jerí, dressed in a hooded top, visiting one of Yang’s restaurants late at night, accompanied by another individual who is currently under house arrest.

Though Jerí has apologized for these undisclosed meetings, he has denied any misconduct, attributing the situation to a smear campaign orchestrated by political adversaries. Initially, lawmakers considered impeachment, but they opted for censure, a parliamentary mechanism that requires only a simple majority for removal instead of the supermajority necessary for impeachment.

Jerí stepped into his role after the impeachment of Dina Boluarte in October 2025, and his removal makes him the seventh president since 2016 amidst a backdrop of ongoing political strife in the country.

The interim leaders will serve only until a new general election is held in April, allowing Peruvians to elect a new head of state. Lawmaker Ruth Luque, who supported Jerí's censure, commented, “We ask to end this agony so we can truly create the transition citizens are hoping for. Not a transition with hidden interests, influence-peddling, secret meetings, and hooded figures. We don’t want that sort of transition.”

Jerí's presidency faced intense scrutiny as a corruption inquiry was launched by the attorney general, leading to a significant drop in his approval ratings. His short time in office also saw intense protests from younger Peruvians demanding more effective measures against crime and corruption, resulting in one fatality and over 100 injuries within the first week of his presidency.

The removal of Jerí serves as a clear indication of the ongoing political instability in Peru, as the nation moves towards its upcoming general elections amid calls for increased accountability and transparent governance.