(Bloomberg) — Peru’s top lawmaker José Jerí was surprisingly sworn in as president early on Friday, following the ouster of his predecessor Dina Boluarte, who was one of the world’s most unpopular leaders.

Boluarte was ditched by former allies in congress who swiftly backed a motion to oust her over criticism that she was not doing enough to handle soaring crime. Lawmakers voted unanimously to approve an impeachment motion to remove her, far exceeding the two-thirds majority required.

She was replaced by Jerí, the head of congress, as the constitution dictates when there is no vice president. He is a conservative who would complete the term that ends in July 2026. A bill to remove Jerí from the top congressional position failed early on Friday, paving the way for his swearing-in.

Boluar

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