José María Balcázar, a veteran politician from Perú Libre, has been elected as the new interim president of Peru following the censure and removal of José Jerí. The election took place in the Congress, where Balcázar secured 64 votes out of 113, defeating María del Carmen Alva with 46 votes amid a highly polarized and urgent political environment. Balcázar, aged 81, is a lawyer with over four decades of academic and judicial experience, and he is participating in his first elected office. His appointment was part of a swift process to stabilize the government during the transition period until the upcoming general elections scheduled for April 2026. In his inaugural address, Balcázar committed to organizing free elections, maintaining economic policies, and strengthening security measures. He emphasized the need for a coordinated response to transnational organized crime, referencing the Tren de Aragua as a terrorist threat. He also announced plans to reform the National Penitentiary Institute (INPE) and to select a capable Minister of Interior to restore public safety. Additionally, he stated that he would evaluate the current ministers and possibly confirm some to ensure continuity. Balcázar's political background includes controversial statements, notably defending early marriage at age 14, which drew public criticism. His rise to power follows a period of political instability, with the Congress choosing a less polarizing figure to lead the country temporarily. His tenure is expected to last until the next general elections in April 2026, during which he aims to serve as a stabilizing figure and facilitate a peaceful democratic transition.