LIMA — Lawmakers in Peru’s Congress chose Jose Balcazar, an 83-year-old legislator from the left-wing Peru Libre party, to replace Jose Jeri as interim president. Balcazar defeated three rivals, including center-right legislator Maria del Carmen Alva, in a vote held Wednesday evening inside the Faustino Sanchez Carrion building.

Congress removed Jeri on Tuesday after only four months in the post. Officials cited undisclosed meetings between Jeri and a Chinese businessman as the reason for his ouster. Balcazar had backed Jeri’s removal.

Sworn in as both interim president and Congress leader, Balcazar promised quick action on elections. “We are going to work to make the elections cleaner and to have new representatives,” he told reporters after the ceremony.

Balcazar’s rise comes amid Peru’s latest bout of political upheaval. The country has cycled through multiple leaders in recent years, fueling public distrust. His term ends July 28, when the winner of April 12 general elections—and a likely June runoff—assumes office.

A lawyer by training, Balcazar earned a doctorate in law and political science. Born in Nanchoc in the northern Cajamarca region, he lectured at universities for decades. He also served as a superior court judge in Lambayeque and held a temporary seat on Peru’s Supreme Court.

Elected to Congress in 2021 from Lambayeque, Balcazar chaired a special commission selecting Constitutional Court magistrates. He held top spots on committees dealing with justice and education issues.

His record includes controversies. In 2023, during a debate on banning child marriage, Balcazar said sexual relations among minors were common, pointing to cases with students and teachers. Rights groups and officials condemned the remarks.

Prosecutors are investigating Balcazar for alleged influence peddling. The Lambayeque Bar Association expelled him permanently in 2024 over claims he misappropriated funds. Balcazar denies all accusations.

Peru’s immediate challenges loom large for the new interim leader. Voter indecision runs high ahead of the April vote, with political factions deeply split. Balcazar must keep stability through the campaign and ensure a smooth handover in July.

Congress members gathered Tuesday to pick a new leader after Jeri’s exit left a vacuum. Balcazar emerged with the votes needed late Wednesday. Photographers captured him leaving the building following the session.

The political turmoil shows no signs of easing. Peru’s system has faced repeated tests, from street protests to rapid leadership changes. Balcazar’s short tenure will gauge if Congress can steady the ship.