Peruvian Prime Minister Resigns Ahead of No-Confidence Vote

LIMA, 14 May 2025 (BSS/AFP) – Peruvian Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzen resigned on Tuesday, just a day before a crucial no-confidence vote, as the government grapples with rising public anger over a surge in violent crime.

Adrianzen, 58, a close ally of embattled President Dina Boluarte, submitted his “irrevocable resignation” in a letter to Boluarte and her ministers, as seen in images broadcast from the presidential palace. His departure marks the latest in a series of political crises for the Boluarte administration, which has faced fierce criticism for failing to address an unprecedented wave of killings linked to organised crime and extortion.

Adrianzen, a former lawyer, became Boluarte’s third prime minister in less than three years when he took office in March 2024, following the resignation of his predecessor amid an influence-peddling scandal.

Lawmakers from across the political spectrum had been calling for Adrianzen’s removal, criticising his handling of the spiralling violence, which has prompted the government to declare a state of emergency and deploy soldiers in an attempt to restore order.

While extortion is a widespread issue in Latin America, it has taken on particularly alarming proportions in Peru, with criminal networks like Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua – known for its brutal tactics – increasingly operating within the country.

Under Peruvian law, a successful no-confidence vote would have forced the resignation of the entire ministerial cabinet, adding further instability to an already fragile government.

Boluarte, who has no political party of her own and relies on the support of a right-wing coalition in Congress, has clung to power despite mounting scandals and repeated calls for her resignation.

Fresh protests against Boluarte’s leadership are expected in the coming days, as public frustration over insecurity and political chaos continues to grow.