Peruvian President Jose Jeri has announced a state of emergency along the border with Chile as thousands of undocumented migrants, primarily Venezuelans, seek to leave Chile ahead of a potential immigration crackdown.
The announcement, made via social media on Friday, comes amid rising concerns of a humanitarian crisis.
Jeri, a far-right leader who assumed the presidency in October following the impeachment of Dina Boluarte, cited public safety as the main reason for the measure.
“We ARE going to declare a state of emergency at the border with Chile to generate tranquility before the risk of migrants entering without authorisation,” he wrote on X, adding that the influx could “threaten the public safety” of Peru’s 34 million residents.
The surge of migrants follows campaign pledges by Chile’s far-right presidential frontrunner, Jose Antonio Kast, who faces leftist Jeannette Jara in the December 14 run-off. Kast has warned undocumented migrants in Chile to leave voluntarily or face detention and expulsion if he wins.
In a recent campaign video, he stated: “You have 111 days to leave Chile voluntarily. If not, we will stop you, we will detain you, we will expel you. You will leave with only the clothes on your back.”
At least 100 people were reported at the border seeking entry into Peru on Friday, according to Peruvian police General Arturo Valverde. Media outlets have broadcast images of families attempting to cross, while President Jeri has pledged to increase troop deployment to the region.
Chile’s left-wing President Gabriel Boric, who cannot serve consecutive terms under Chilean law, has faced criticism from his security minister, Luis Cordero, for campaign rhetoric that could worsen the situation.
“People cannot be used as a means to create controversy for the elections,” Cordero said, emphasizing the need to prevent a humanitarian crisis.
About 330,000 undocumented migrants currently reside in Chile, though it is unclear how many have crossed into Peru in recent days.
Analysts warn that the upcoming measures could further strain the border region, heightening tensions and humanitarian risks.
Source: Al Jazeera
Written By Rodney Mbua
