#EndSARS: Peru’s President Manuel Merino Resigns After The Death Of 2 Protesters—-Having spent only 5 days in office, Peru’s interim President, Manuel Merino has resigned on Sunday after two protesters were left dead and scores injured.
In the midst the national unrest, Merino was sworn in as chief of state on Tuesday. In one of the largest protest in Lima, citizens accused the Congress of staging a parliamentary coup over his predecessor, Martin Vizcarra over alleged bribery.
“I want to let the whole country know that I’m resigning,” Merino said, a day after a police crackdown on protesters in Peru left at least two people dead.
“I, like everyone, want what’s best for our country,” he added.
Scores of protesters took to the streets to protest against Merino over the impeachment of Vizcarra on November 9th. As a reuslt, many were injured from blunt force, tear gas, or projectiles from the excessive force used by the police force.
According to Human rights groups, 112 people were hurt and the whereabouts of 41 others, unknown. Health authorities said the dead included Jack Pintado, 22, who was shot 11 times, including in the head, and Jordan Sotelo, 24, who was hit four times in the thorax near his heart.
Merino resigned shortly after the crisis as the congress called on him to resign. The Congress is expected to appoint a new president in a week.
