Newly elected president of Peru, Manuel Merino, has on Sunday resigned, barely five days into his administration, following series of protest against the ousting of his predecessor, Mr Martin Vizcarra, that resulted to killing of protesters.

Obinwannem News learnt that the Merino, 59, resigned shortly after a crisis session of Congress called on him to quit power before 6:00 pm (2300 GMT) or face censure.

Thousands have taken to the streets in days of protests against Merino following the removal of his predecessor, Mr Vizcarra, who was impeached on corruption allegations on Monday. The controversial removal of Vizcarra was recognized as a coup by many Peruvians

“I want to let the whole country know that I’m resigning,” Merino said in a televised address, a day after a police crackdown on protesters left at least two people dead.

Congress’ ultimatum came after the health ministry said two protesters were killed on Saturday during a massive and peaceful march in Lima, which was repressed by police firing shotgun pellets and tear gas.

Merino said that in order to avoid a “power vacuum” the 18 ministers he swore in on Thursday would temporarily remain in their posts, though almost all had resigned in the wake of Saturday’s deadly protest.

The resignation was greeted by noisy celebrations in Lima, with demonstrators taking to the streets sounding horns and banging pots.

Nwada Ugochinyere Onyechere reporting, Obinwannem News