Stones and Harangues. The arrival of candidate Rafael López Aliaga from Popular Renewal in Juliaca, located in the Puno region, revealed significant opposition to his presence in southern Peru. What was intended as a campaign event transformed into a flashpoint for protests, with relatives of victims from the tumultuous protests of 2022 and 2023 taking to the streets to demand justice and accountability.
Protests and Attack on the Truck
As López Aliaga’s motorcade departed from Inca Manco Cápac International Airport, numerous protesters gathered along the route. They displayed signs and voiced their disapproval of the candidate’s presence.
The situation quickly escalated. Some protesters blocked the candidate’s vehicle, resulting in a tense standoff. Local media footage depicted security agents scrambling to protect the vehicle as it moved through the throngs, amidst chants and jeers from the crowd.
Faced with the escalating tensions, the candidate’s team decided to change course, taking an alternate route to avoid confrontation. Police forces worked to maintain order while ensuring López Aliaga’s safe passage to the planned venue.
Clashes and Injuries
Outside the airport, clashes erupted between López Aliaga’s supporters and citizens protesting against him, resulting in violent confrontations that left several injured.
One notable injury was sustained by Diego Quispe, a member of the Association of Victims of January 9, who suffered a head injury from a thrown stone. Amidst the chaos, Quispe voiced his dissent against the candidate, reiterating calls for justice.
According to victim’s relatives, at least four individuals were injured in the unrest. Reports indicate that some of López Aliaga’s supporters may have been involved in the violence, further amplifying the tensions between the opposing groups.
Despite efforts from supporters to engage with the candidate, additional groups gathered outside the venue where he intended to conduct his campaign activities.
Context of Rejection in Southern Peru
López Aliaga’s tumultuous arrival in Juliaca reflects an ongoing climate of hostility toward him and others in the southern regions of Peru, particularly in Puno, where lingering memories of the protests from December 2022 and January 2023 are palpable.
On January 9, 2023, violence marred social demonstrations that resulted in the deaths of 18 individuals. This tragic event has left a lasting mark on the community, and various sectors continue to hold critical views toward political figures who have either downplayed the events or issued disparaging remarks about the victims. López Aliaga, alongside some members of his party, has been implicated in this dismissal, augmenting public dissatisfaction.