The five-day presidency of Manuel Merino remains a distinct chapter in Peruvian history, initiated by the impeachment of his predecessor and terminated by widespread civil unrest. Ascending from his role as president of the Congress of the Republic of Peru to the nation's highest office, his brief administration was marked by immediate public disapproval and a rapid departure from power.
Early Background and Agrarian Work
Born in Tumbes on 20 August 1961, Manuel Arturo Merino de Lama is the son of Pedro Merino Hidalgo and Elba de Lama Barreto. He attended Santa María de la Frontera School and the Inmaculada Concepción Educational Center. In 1979, he began studies in agronomics at the National University of Piura but did not graduate. He married Mary Jacqueline Peña Carruitero in 1985, and the couple has three children. Before entering politics, he worked as an agricultural producer and held leadership positions within various regional organizations, including the Tumbes Livestock Fund and the Association of Banana Producers.
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Merino joined the Popular Action party in 1979. He served three non-consecutive terms in the Congress of the Republic of Peru, representing Tumbes. His legislative career spanned the 2001–2006, 2011–2016, and 2020–2021 terms. During his middle term, he served as First Vice President of the Congress and chaired the Housing Committee. In March 2020, he faced allegations regarding government contracts awarded to his family members during his prior tenure, which he denied. In 2020, he was elected president of the Congress with 93 votes.
Presidential Crisis and Resignation
On 9 November 2020, the Congress removed President Martín Vizcarra citing moral incapacity. Merino, serving as head of the legislative body, assumed the presidency the following day. His accession triggered immediate national protests, with polls indicating 94% disapproval among the public. Following the deaths of two individuals during these protests, Merino resigned from office on 15 November 2020, just five days after his inauguration. He was succeeded by Francisco Sagasti.
Fast facts
- Born: 20 August 1961, Tumbes
- Political Party: Popular Action
- President of Peru: 10–15 November 2020
- President of Congress: 16 March 2020–15 November 2020
- Spouse: Mary Jacqueline Peña Carruitero
- Children: Elba Jacqueline, Sandra Lisbeth, María Teresa
Questions readers ask
How long was Manuel Merino president?
He served as President of Peru for five days, from 10 November 2020 to 15 November 2020.
Why did Manuel Merino resign?
He resigned following widespread national protests against his administration, which resulted in two deaths.
