Peru Congress Ousts President Because of China-Linked Secret Meetings

Peru’s Congress voted to remove President José Jerí on February 17, 2026, following a scandal over undisclosed meetings with a Chinese businessman. This decision, supported by 75 lawmakers with only 24 voting against, highlights the ongoing political instability that has plagued Peru for years.

Legislators now face the task of electing a new head of Congress, who will also assume the presidency, marking the country's eighth leader in as many years. Jerí’s removal continues a trend, as he is the third consecutive president ousted from office, reflecting the political class's failure to address critical issues such as crime and corruption. The Scandal and Its Implications

The controversy, dubbed "Chifagate," began when Jerí was filmed in late December arriving at a restaurant to meet Chinese businessman Zhihua Yang. This incident raised alarms due to Yang's connections to a state-granted hydroelectric project and a businessman tied to illegal timber operations. Allegations of "illegal sponsorship of interests" surfaced, further complicating Jerí's already precarious position.

Jerí, who had just taken office in October, initially became president after Congress voted to oust his predecessor, Dina Boluarte, amid similar corruption concerns. With his removal, lawmakers and analysts express worries about escalating public distrust in politicians as upcoming elections approach.

Despite the turbulent political landscape, Peru's economy has shown resilience, with a reported growth rate of 3.4% in 2025, suggesting a disconnection between political scandals and economic performance. Future Outlook

As Peru readies for elections scheduled for April 12, 2026, the appointment of a new interim president will serve as a crucial step in restoring some stability. However, concerns remain regarding the motivations of lawmakers and the potential for further political upheaval. The country’s constitution permits the removal of presidents deemed "morally incapable," a vague standard that has enabled swift political changes.

Overall, the situation appears dynamic, with numerous candidates likely participating in the upcoming elections, further complicating the governance landscape in Peru.