LIMA, Peru, — Keiko Fujimori was sworn in as Peru’s president on Tuesday after securing a narrow victory in the June presidential runoff, marking a significant political shift toward conservative leadership in South America.
Fujimori, leader of the Popular Force party, won the election by fewer than 50,000 votes and becomes Peru’s ninth president in the past decade, taking office amid persistent political instability and public demands for stronger governance.
The 51-year-old pledged to restore stability, strengthen public security, reduce crime, and accelerate economic growth during her inaugural address.
Focus on Security and Economy
Fujimori campaigned on a tough-on-crime platform, promising to crack down on organized crime and extortion, which have become major security concerns across Peru.
She announced plans to:
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- Intensify anti-crime operations with military support in high-risk areas.
- Build a high-security mega-prison inspired by El Salvador’s CECOT facility.
- Introduce judicial reforms to better protect judges handling organized crime cases.
- Expand infrastructure projects through stronger public-private partnerships.
- Increase Peru’s minimum wage by 15%.
- Strengthen social programs aimed at reducing malnutrition in rural communities.
- Improve disaster preparedness ahead of the expected El Niño weather phenomenon.
Political Background
Keiko Fujimori is the daughter of former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori, who governed Peru during the 1990s. While he is credited with stabilizing the country’s economy and defeating insurgent groups, his administration was later criticized for human rights violations. Alberto Fujimori was imprisoned, pardoned in 2023, and passed away in 2024.
With her Popular Force party and its main ally expected to control roughly half of the Senate seats, Fujimori is likely to enjoy stronger legislative support than many of her recent predecessors, potentially reducing the risk of political deadlock.
Vision for Peru
In her inaugural speech, Fujimori said her administration would focus on improving the lives of ordinary Peruvians.
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“My goal is not only to administer the state,” she said. “My main objective is to narrow the enormous social deficit that affects millions of Peruvians.”
Her presidency begins as Peru seeks greater political stability after years of leadership changes, corruption scandals, and institutional crises.
