Presidential Vacancy

Peru saw its greatest political instability in 20 years in mid-November. On 9 November, the Peruvian national congress impeached President Martin Vizcarra, who was widely popular as an anti-corruption crusader. Protests began in Lima and spread around the country. Congress speaker Manuel Merino was installed as interim president on 10 November, sparking accusations of a parliamentary coup. Protests intensified, with National Marches on 12 and 14 November. Merino resigned on 15 November. A new president, Francisco Sagasti, was inaugurated two days later.