Keiko Fujimori Wins Peru’s Presidential Election Amid Political Tensions

The conservative candidate Keiko Fujimori has narrowly secured victory in Peru’s presidential election. Her win follows weeks of contentious vote counting, marking a recent right-wing success in Latin America.

According to Peru’s National Office for Electoral Processes (ONPE), Fujimori, daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, captured 50.135 percent of the votes during the June 7 run-off elections. The left-wing contender, Roberto Sánchez, came close with 49.865 percent. Despite the tight results, Sánchez suggested that his party, Together for Peru, might challenge the outcome. The final announcement is expected from Peru’s National Jury of Elections on Friday.

“We are getting closer and closer to starting a path of order and hope for all Peruvians,” Fujimori stated Monday night.

Several Latin American countries have recently seen a shift to the right. Dissatisfaction with sluggish economies and corruption scandals involving left-wing politicians has fueled conservative victories. Promises to tackle crime have also boosted support for right-wing candidates.

This political landscape includes Colombia’s recent election, where right-wing candidate Abelardo de la Espriella won after gaining support from former U.S. President Donald Trump. Similarly, Nasry Asfura, backed by Trump, rose to power in Honduras amid allegations of election fraud. In contrast, Mexico and Brazil maintain left-leaning leadership.

The U.S. administration under Trump attempted to strengthen its influence in Latin America through initiatives reminiscent of the Monroe Doctrine. Efforts included the ‘Shield of the Americas’ coalition, aligning with center-right and hard-right leaders adopting Trump-like policies.

Disputed Vote and Claims of Fraud

Fujimori’s Popular Force party took victory with fewer than 50,000 votes, according to the ONPE. Sánchez claimed earlier this month that fraud favored Fujimori, despite offering no evidence. He reported potential harm to the electoral process, asserting his party’s right to appeal.

Fujimori’s father, who governed Peru from 1990, is a controversial figure. Some praise him for guiding the nation through economic hardships and countering terrorism. Others condemn him for corruption and human rights violations, which led to a 25-year prison sentence in 2009. Released in December 2023 on humanitarian grounds, he passed away in September 2024.