Target: Francisco Sagasti, President of Peru
Goal: Praise decision to end violent counter-demonstrations and investigate police suspected of using lethal tactics.
Violent police tactics that resulted in the deaths of two people protesting an apparent coup d’etat in Peru will be ended and those guilty of using them will be placed under investigation. When President Martín Vizcarra was overthrown by a vote widely seen as illegitimate, tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets. There, they were met by riot police whose tactics included vicious beatings, the firing of rubber bullets at deadly close range, and infiltration of crowds by plainclothes officers to distract and terrify demonstrators. These heavy-handed tactics have resulted in two deaths and dozens of injuries, leading to widespread demands that the violence aimed at peaceful protesters be ended.
The interim president of Peru, as well as the National Prosecutor’s Office, have announced that the National Police will no longer be authorized to suppress protests, and allegations of excessive violence will be immediately investigated. This decision is a victory for opponents of police brutality and those who signed petitions like this one. Thank Peru’s government by signing the petition below.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Mr. President,
The use of violent tactics against peaceful pro-democracy protesters was a violation of Peru’s constitution and the human rights of ordinary citizens. The sight of Peruvians calling out injustice and political corruption is an encouraging sign for advocates of democracy the world over, but the lethal suppression of that outcry is a mark of shame for Peru.
Thank you and your colleagues for heeding the demands of your people, protecting them from police brutality, and investigating any possible wrongdoing. I hope those responsible for the attacks on protestors will be held accountable.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Johnattan Rupire
213 Signatures