Key Facts
• On July 2, 2025, Peru announced doubling President Dina Boluarte’s salary.
• New monthly salary: $10,000 (approx. ¥1.44 million), previously ranked 11th in Latin America.
• May 2025 approval rating: 2%, sparking public criticism of the pay raise.
• Economy Minister Raúl Pérez-Reyes justified the increase by regional salary comparisons.
• Former Finance Minister Luis Miguel Castilla criticized the decision as “frivolous.”
• Economist Jorge González Izquierdo called the timing “the worst possible.”
• Boluarte faces 12 investigations, including the “Rolexgate” tax evasion scandal.
• Since taking office in December 2022, her term has been marred by protests, scandals, and violence.
Summary
Peru’s government announced a controversial decision to double President Dina Boluarte’s salary to $10,000 per month, despite her low 2% approval rating as of May 2025. The raise, justified by comparisons with other Latin American leaders, has drawn widespread criticism. Experts, including economist Jorge González Izquierdo and former Finance Minister Luis Miguel Castilla, condemned the timing and optics of the decision, labeling it as poorly judged and frivolous. Boluarte’s presidency, which began in December 2022, has been plagued by protests, scandals, and rising violence. She is currently under investigation for 12 cases, including allegations of failing to declare luxury gifts, a controversy dubbed “Rolexgate.” The decision to increase her salary has further fueled public discontent.
