Following widespread protests over rising petrol and fertilizer prices, Peruvian President Pedro Castillo has imposed a curfew in the capital, Lima, and the coastal city of Callao.

In an effort to keep gasoline prices stable, the administration announced on Sunday that the fuel tax will be temporarily eliminated.

On Monday, though, lorry drivers and farmers blocked highways throughout most of the country once more.

According to the Government, four individuals have died as a result of the protests.

Following a meeting with his Council of Ministers, President Castillo announced the curfew.

He also announced a state of emergency in Lima and Callao, suspending certain rights such as the right to free assembly and movement.

“I call for calm and serenity. Social protest is a constitutional right, but it must be carried out within the confines of the law “In a television address, President Castillo stated.

Critics of the president have slammed the curfew, which would affect some 10 million people, as “authoritarian.”

Fertilizer and fuel prices have risen dramatically in Peru since the start of the Ukraine conflict.

Last week, lorry drivers began blocking major roadways, resulting in an increase in food costs.

On Monday, some of the protests became violent, with protestors burning toll booths.

The demonstrations take place at a time when Peru is already dealing with rising inflation and the president’s popularity is at an all-time low.

After securing a slender majority, the left-wing leader has been in power since July. According to polls, his approval rating has decreased to around 25% since then.

During his brief tenure in power, he has reshuffled his government several times, replacing key ministers, and has fended off two impeachment efforts.

In Peru, where the legislature and the president are frequently at odds, impeachment proceedings are rather regular.