Background on Dina Boluarte and Her Presidency
Dina Boluarte, the 62-year-old President of Peru, has experienced a dramatic decline in her approval rating, reaching an all-time low of 2% in the latest survey released on Monday. This drop signifies a significant shift in public opinion since her assumption of power following the failed coup attempt by former President Pedro Castillo in December 2022.
Ipsos Survey Details
The survey, conducted by Ipsos among 1,207 individuals between May 8 and 9, placed Boluarte’s approval rating well below the margin of error, which is ±2.8%. According to Guillermo Loli, the director of Ipsos, “This is a historic record… I am unaware of any record this poor globally.”
Impact of Recent Events on Boluarte’s Approval Rating
The assassination of 13 mining workers in Pataz by organized crime on May 5 has negatively affected Boluarte’s standing. This incident, along with the rising crime and extortion rates in Peru since 2024, has led to the government deploying military forces onto the streets and declaring a state of emergency in Lima, home to 10 million residents.
Boluarte’s Declining Popularity
Since taking office, Boluarte has maintained a disapproval rating above 90% for nine months. In May, her disapproval remained at 94%, similar to April’s figures. However, her approval rating fell below 10% for the first time in November 2023, as reported by Ipsos.
Contextualizing Boluarte’s Presidency
Boluarte’s presidency has been marked by escalating challenges, including the growing influence of organized crime and extortion. These issues have prompted the government to involve the military in maintaining law and order, particularly in Lima. The recent assassination of mining workers has further eroded public trust in Boluarte’s ability to address these pressing concerns.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Dina Boluarte? Dina Boluarte is the 62-year-old President of Peru, who assumed office in December 2022 following a failed coup attempt by former President Pedro Castillo.
- What is the significance of her approval rating? Boluarte’s historically low approval rating of 2% reflects widespread public dissatisfaction with her presidency and her administration’s handling of critical issues, such as crime and extortion.
- What events have contributed to her declining popularity? The assassination of 13 mining workers in Pataz by organized crime and the general rise in crime and extortion rates since 2024 have negatively impacted Boluarte’s standing.
- How has the Peruvian government responded to these challenges? The Peruvian government has deployed military forces onto the streets and declared a state of emergency in Lima to address the escalating crime situation.
