LIMA: Peru's Congress rejected on Saturday a request by embattled President Dina Boluarte to bring forward elections to December this year as protests that have killed dozens rage on against her leadership. The South American country has been embroiled in a political crisis with near-daily protests since December 7, when former president Pedro Castillo was arrested after attempting to dissolve Congress and rule by decree. Demanding that Boluarte resign and call fresh elections, Castillo's supporters have erected roadblocks on highways, causing shortages of food, fuel and other basic supplies. The government said it would soon deploy police and soldiers to clear the roadblocks. Lawmakers already agreed last month to bring forward elections from 2026 to April 2024.

Source: Manila Times January 28, 2023 17:22 UTC