Peru’s President May Be Ousted over Secret Meetings with Chinese Businessmen

New York Times - WorldEN 6 min read 100% complete by Max Bearak and Mitra TajJanuary 23, 2026 at 11:04 AM

AI Summary

long article 6 min

Peruvian President José Jerí is facing potential ouster due to a scandal involving undisclosed meetings with Chinese businessman Yang Zhihua. Leaked videos from December show Jerí visiting Yang's restaurant and store in Lima, raising concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest. Jerí, who took office in October after his predecessor's impeachment, is legally required to log all official activities, which he failed to do regarding these visits. Lawmakers are questioning Jerí about the meetings, particularly after a municipal ordinance against Yang's store was overturned shortly after Jerí's visit. Jerí defends his actions as personal and unrelated to his official duties, but the controversy threatens his presidency amidst a history of political instability in Peru.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Associated Press 30% China 40% Xin Yan Restaurant 50% Congress 50% Lima ×260% Yang Zhihua ×570% José Jerí ×990% Peru ×490%

Keywords

josé jerí 100% peru 90% political scandal 90% secret meetings 85% impeachment 80% chinese businessman 75% corruption accusations 70% leaked video 70% government scrutiny 50% municipal ordinance 40%