VOICED : Manifestantes toman aeropuerto de Arequipa pese a anuncio de elecciones anticipadas en Perú

Protests erupted in Peru as demonstrators took over the Arequipa airport, demanding the release of former President Pedro Castillo, the resignation of his successor Dina Boluarte, and the dissolution of Congress. Castillo was detained following a failed coup attempt and was replaced by Boluarte. Despite Boluarte's proposal to advance elections from 2026 to 2024, unrest continued with road blockades in cities like Arequipa, Trujillo, and Cusco. Violent clashes in Andahuaylas resulted in casualties. Agrarian and indigenous groups announced an indefinite strike. Castillo, a rural teacher and union leader, faced opposition from the legislature and corruption charges, yet retained support from Andean communities since his 2021 election.

What were the main demands of the protestors who took over the Arequipa airport?

• Increase in wages and better working conditions

• Reduction in taxes and improved healthcare

• Release of Pedro Castillo and resignation of Dina Boluarte

• Expansion of educational facilities

What was the response of Dina Boluarte to the protestors' demands?

• She proposed advancing the elections from 2026 to 2024

• She resigned from her position

• She ignored the demands completely

• She increased the military presence in the cities

Which cities experienced blockades due to the protests?

• Iquitos, Pucallpa, and Tarapoto

• Arequipa, Trujillo, and Cusco

• Lima, Puno, and Tacna

• Chiclayo, Piura, and Tumbes

What was the outcome of the clashes in Andahuaylas?

• Two people died and many were injured

• The airport was successfully defended by the police

• The protestors took control of the city

• No injuries were reported

What action did agrarian and indigenous organizations announce?

• A temporary halt to protests

• An indefinite strike starting Tuesday

• A petition to the United Nations

• A march to the capital city