Peru’s highly unpopular President Dina Boluarte has doubled her monthly salary to the equivalent of $10,000, the government announced on July 2, 2025. The 63-year-old leader faces widespread protests and escalating gang violence across the country.
The salary increase comes despite earlier denials in May that such a raise was planned. Economy Minister Raul Perez-Reyes explained that the new salary was set after comparing the pay of heads of state in twelve Latin American countries. Prior to the increase, Boluarte’s salary ranked 11th in the region, just above Bolivia’s president.
Boluarte’s approval rating hovered around a dismal 2 percent in May, and the announcement was met with sharp criticism. Economist Jorge Gonzáles Izquierdo described the timing as “the worst” given her near-zero popularity. Former Economy Minister Luis Miguel Castilla said the raise “reinforces the impression of frivolity” surrounding the president.
Since assuming office in December 2022, Boluarte’s tenure has been marked by persistent protests, scandals, and a surge in gang-related violence. She is currently under investigation in multiple probes, including one dubbed “Rolexgate,” concerning undeclared luxury gifts.
The salary hike has intensified public discontent, with many Peruvians viewing it as insensitive amid the country’s ongoing social and security crises.
