Peru government requests 120 days of legislative powers

legislative powers organized crime terrorism classification public security economic reform

The government of President Keiko Fujimori has submitted an urgent request to the Congress of the Republic for legislative powers spanning 120 days. The proposal, consisting of 66 specific requests across eight thematic areas, aims to reform strategic sectors of the state.

A primary focus is public security and the fight against organized crime. Key measures include modifying penal and procedural codes, establishing a legal framework to classify criminal organizations as terrorist organizations, and regulating the use of force. Defense Minister Rafael Belaúnde noted that this would allow the Armed Forces to treat certain transnational gangs and criminal groups in mining zones as ‘hostile groups,’ authorizing military operations and the use of lethal force against them. Additionally, the plan seeks to allow the temporary and exceptional participation of the military in supporting police operations and securing penitentiaries.

Other priority areas include economic revitalization, specifically targeting micro and small enterprises (MYPEs), employment promotion, and administrative simplification. The package also covers tax reforms, digital transformation, and modernization of the state, as well as disaster risk management and infrastructure development.