Peruvian President Dina Boluarte is facing a storm of public anger after authorising a decree that doubles her monthly salary to over 35,500 soles (about $10,000 or £7,300), even as her public approval stands at just 2 percent.

The move has drawn sharp criticism across the country, with many describing it as “out of touch” and “scandalous.” The salary adjustment comes at a time when Boluarte’s leadership is already under strain due to multiple investigations and growing dissatisfaction over her handling of security and governance.

The country’s Economy Minister, Raúl Pérez Reyes, defended the decision, saying the change was meant to bring Peru’s presidential pay in line with other Latin American countries. He explained that prior to the increase, Boluarte earned the second-lowest salary among 12 regional presidents, with only Bolivia’s leader taking home less.

However, the justification did little to calm public outrage.

Social media users erupted in protest, pointing to deepening economic struggles and poor service delivery. Videos from her recent visit to Arequipa showed her motorcade being pelted with eggs and stones, with crowds booing as she passed, reflecting a rising tide of discontent.

Boluarte took office in December 2022 after former president Pedro Castillo was impeached. As the vice president, she assumed leadership under constitutional succession.

Her presidency has since been surrounded by controversy. She is under investigation for allegedly failing to declare luxury gifts, and also faced backlash for not appointing a temporary replacement while undergoing surgery, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

Critics say the decision to raise her salary while most Peruvians struggle with high costs and insecurity highlights a deep disconnect between the government and the people. The new presidential salary is nearly 35 times higher than the country’s minimum wage, which remains at 1,025 soles (around $288 or £210).

As public trust in her administration continues to erode, Boluarte has denied any wrongdoing in the ongoing probes. Still, the salary increase is expected to fuel further public protests and deepen the leadership crisis.