Peru Congress impeaches interim President after four months in office

Peru's Congress impeaches interim President Jose Jeri over graft allegations, marking the seventh leader ousted in ten years.

Peru's Congress on Tuesday (February 17, 2026) impeached interim President Jose Jeri, the Latin American country's seventh head of state in 10 years and only the latest toppled over graft claims.

Mr. Jeri, 39, was accused in the irregular hiring of several women in his government, and of suspected graft involving a Chinese businessman.

In office since last October, Mr. Jeri took over from unpopular leader Dina Boluarte, who was also impeached amid protests against corruption and a wave of violence linked to organised crime.

Prosecutors last week opened an investigation into "whether the head of state exercised undue influence" in government appointments.

Mr. Jeri has protested his innocence.

Mr. Jeri — at the time the head of Peru's unicameral parliament — was appointed last year to serve out the remainder of Ms. Boluarte's term, which runs until July, when a new President will take over following elections on April 12.