LIMA – Manuel Merino resigned as Peru’s president yesterday, just five days after taking office, sparking celebrations in the capital here following street protests against him and the ousting of his popular predecessor.
“I want to let the whole country know that I’m resigning,” said Merino in a televised address, a day after a police crackdown on protesters left at least two people dead.
Merino, 59, resigned shortly after a crisis session of Congress called on him to quit power before 6pm (2300 GMT) or face censure.
Congress is expected to appoint a new president – the South American country’s third in a week – in a new session called for 6pm.
Thousands have taken to the streets in days of protests against Merino following the ouster of his predecessor, Martin Vizcarra, who was impeached on corruption allegations last Monday.
Congress’ ultimatum came after the Health Ministry said two protesters were killed on Saturday during a massive and peaceful march here that was repressed by police firing shotgun pellets and tear gas.
Merino said in order to avoid a “power vacuum”, the 18 ministers he swore in on Thursday will temporarily remain in their posts, though almost all resigned in the wake of Saturday’s deadly rally.
The resignation was greeted by noisy celebrations here, with demonstrators taking to the streets sounding horns and banging pots. – AFP, November 16, 2020
