LIMA — Polls opened in Peru on June 7 for a presidential runoff that pits conservative Keiko Fujimori against leftist ex-minister Roberto Sánchez in a contest dominated by crime and political instability.
Around 27 million voters across the Andes and the Amazon are choosing a president for a five-year term after a first round marred by logistical problems and a protracted vote count that deepened distrust in institutions. Pre-election surveys indicated a tight race, with Sánchez, a psychologist and former minister who surged late thanks to rural support, narrowly qualifying for the rAunoff.
On the eve of voting, a judge ordered Sánchez to stand trial over past financial irregularities tied to his party, prompting accusations of interference. If elected, Sánchez would gain presidential immunity but would still face a right-leaning Congress that has repeatedly ousted presidents. He draws political lineage from former president Pedro Castillo, plans to pardon Castillo if elected, and says he wants a “respectful” relationship with US President Donald Trump. Sánchez has moderated earlier calls for radical change and emphasizes fighting corruption in the police and judiciary.
Fujimori, a four-time presidential candidate and the 51-year-old daughter of former president Alberto Fujimori, appeals to voters with memories of her father’s economic stabilisation and his campaign against a Maoist insurgency, even as his administration was later convicted for corruption and crimes against humanity. She has vowed tougher security measures, including militarising prisons and forcibly expelling some migrants, and seeks to tap into a regional swing toward right-wing, US-aligned governments.
Neither candidate controls Congress, meaning the winner will need alliances to govern. Analysts warn a close result could fuel further instability and questions of legitimacy. Voters’ immediate concern remains crime: extortion complaints have surged and violent gang activity has increased. Both candidates stress law-and-order measures, while offering differing economic plans, Fujimori backing neoliberal policies and US investment, Sánchez proposing wage increases but pledging to uphold an open economy and central bank independence.
The victor will replace interim president José María Balcázar on July 28.