Peru’s interim president was ousted from office on Tuesday amid corruption claims, further destabilizing the nation ahead of April’s presidential and congressional elections, reports indicate.
José Jerí’s removal comes in the wake of an ongoing scandal dubbed “Chifagate,” where he was allegedly captured on film at a secret meeting with a Chinese businessman holding a concession for an energy project, according to reports.
Jerí was also said to have met with another business figure, who is reportedly under investigation for suspected involvement in illegal logging.
Legislators removed him by voting to censure him as head of Congress, a process requiring only a simple majority that automatically stripped him of the presidency.
Jerí has stated he will respect the vote’s outcome, denied any wrongdoing, and will return to his role as a lawmaker, reports note.
Tuesday’s ouster marks the latest turn in a protracted political crisis that has seen seven presidents take office since 2016.
Jerí had assumed office on Oct. 10, 2025, following the removal of his predecessor, Dina Boluarte.
Right-wing parties that had supported Boluarte withdrew their backing amid fresh corruption scandals. As Boluarte had no vice president, Jerí, who was then head of Congress, became the next in line.
Legislators will now elect a new head of Congress, who will also take on the presidency until July 28, 2026, when the winner of the election is sworn in.
With the country moving toward the next election, the presidential race remains crowded.
Conservative businessman Rafael López Aliaga currently leads, while Keiko Fujimori, the daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, is in second place in most polls.
Fujimori narrowly lost her last presidential campaign, securing 49% of the vote in 2021. If no candidate secures more than 50% in April, the top two candidates will advance to a June runoff.
Rospigliosi stated that parties have until 6 p.m. local time to submit candidates, and the legislature is expected to vote on a new president on Feb. 18.