Denisse Miralles: Peru’s New PM Focuses on Transition, Elections & Emergency Response

Peru Swears in New Cabinet, Focuses on Elections and Climate Crisis

Lima – Economist Denisse Miralles was sworn in Tuesday evening as Peru’s new Prime Minister, leading a restructured cabinet under President José María Balcázar. The appointment comes as Peru prepares for general elections on April 12th and grapples with the aftermath of severe flooding and landslides caused by the El Niño phenomenon.

Miralles, who previously served as Economy and Finance Minister under the prior administration of José Jerí, took the oath of office at 6:18 PM local time at the Palacio de Gobierno. Her primary task, she stated in a late-night press conference, is to ensure an orderly and transparent transfer of power following recent political upheaval.

“The Peru needs the closure of this stage of political uncertainty,” Miralles emphasized, adding that the current government’s mission is “to ensure a coordinated and transparent democratic transition.”

The appointment of Miralles followed the unexpected withdrawal of renowned economist Hernando de Soto, who reportedly declined the position due to disagreements over the composition of the cabinet. Miralles dismissed suggestions that her selection was based on political quotas, asserting her career as a public servant.

“I am a career public official, I have no political affiliation,” Miralles stated.

Economic Stability and Fiscal Policy

Miralles assured the public that there would be no changes to the country’s fiscal direction, maintaining respect for the rules that foster confidence in investment. She emphasized that significant changes are not feasible within the short timeframe of the transition government and the focus is on establishing a responsible roadmap for the incoming administration.

“The economic orientation of this government will remain firm and unchanged,” she said.

Addressing the Climate Emergency

The new cabinet immediately prioritized addressing the devastation caused by intense rains and flooding across the country. During its first session following the swearing-in ceremony, the government designated the response to the El Niño-induced crisis as an absolute priority.

A state of emergency has been declared in numerous districts and provinces within regions including Arequipa, Ica, Moquegua, Amazonas, Áncash, Junín, Cajamarca, and Lima, to expedite the allocation of resources and the deployment of humanitarian aid.

President Balcázar, accompanied by ministers from Housing, Transport, Agriculture, Defense, and the PCM, is scheduled to travel to the Arequipa region to assess the damage firsthand.

Defense Minister Luis Arroyo announced the mobilization of heavy machinery, including trucks and water tankers, along with tents and food supplies, to the 707 districts currently under a state of emergency.

Security and International Relations

Regarding citizen security, the government announced plans to strengthen intelligence gathering and strategic efforts to improve operational capacity in combating crime. The aim is to foster more effective collaboration between the Executive Branch, the National Police, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, and the Judiciary.

“We will strengthen citizen security by articulating efforts more effectively,” Miralles stated.

Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela indicated that relations with the United States remain strong, with a commitment to deepening the security and defense alliance. However, he noted that potential visits to President Donald Trump and Pope Leo XIV have not yet been discussed with President Balcázar, given the cabinet’s recent formation.

“The relationship between the two countries is an excellent one,” de Zela confirmed.

The appointment of Miralles and the formation of the new cabinet mark a critical juncture for Peru, as the nation navigates a period of political instability and prepares for upcoming elections. The government’s immediate priorities are to ensure a smooth democratic transition, address the ongoing climate emergency, and maintain economic stability.