With the second-round presidential election just four days away, Keiko Fujimori, the candidate for Fuerza Popular, conducted final campaign rallies this Wednesday in Túcume, Lambayeque and Sullana, Piura. During these events, Fujimori emphasized a platform of security, order, and democratic stability, while sharply criticizing her opponent, Roberto Sánchez of Juntos por el Perú.
In Túcume, Fujimori framed the upcoming vote as a critical choice for the nation’s future, warning against the potential for social crisis. She drew a parallel to the current situation in Bolivia, where protests and road blockades have persisted since May 6, fueled by demands for the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. Fujimori stated, “No queremos retroceder, [no queremos] que nuestro país viva lo que hoy está pasando en Bolivia. Vamos a hacer cambios fundamentales para recuperar la paz y la esperanza.”
Criticism of Opponents and Campaign Rhetoric
Fujimori’s campaign has increasingly targeted the technical team of Juntos por el Perú, which she labeled a “Frankenstein político” due to the inclusion of former ministers from the administration of Pedro Castillo. She argued that her opponents, lacking substantive arguments, have resorted to insults. Regarding her own political history, she addressed her time in prison, stating, “Me han insultado, me llevaron injustamente a prisión, casi 500 días para debilitarme, para que ya no lo intente. Pero, así como ustedes, yo no me rindo, no me escondo, y siempre doy la cara.”
The candidate also addressed her father’s legacy. While she expressed a desire to emulate the order achieved during the 1990s in defeating terrorist groups like Sendero Luminoso and the MRTA, she explicitly distanced herself from the human rights abuses associated with that era. “Los horrendos crímenes” of the Grupo Colina, she asserted, “de ninguna manera se van a permitir ni ocurrirán” in her government. She also affirmed that she would not have a figure similar to Vladimiro Montesinos in her administration.
International Support and Future Strategy
A group of 14 former heads of state and government from Iberoamérica, including Mauricio Macri, Mariano Rajoy, and Felipe Calderón, issued a formal statement expressing their support for Fujimori. They described her candidacy as an alternative to the “grave daño” caused by radical leftist projects in the region. Fujimori, who reached this election cycle following a Constitutional Tribunal ruling regarding the “Caso Cocteles,” welcomed the support as a reinforcement of her commitment to the rule of law.
Looking ahead, the campaign is scheduled to conclude its activities with a final rally this Thursday in Ate Vitarte at the Arena Monumental. Analysts suggest that the final days of the campaign will likely remain focused on securing the support of undecided voters, as both camps attempt to define the stakes of the June 7 election.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Keiko Fujimori’s stance on the government of her father, Alberto Fujimori?
Fujimori has stated that she intends to work while “pensando en todo lo bueno del gobierno de mi padre, descartando también sus errores.” She specifically cited the restoration of order and the defeat of terrorist groups as positive aspects, while condemning the human rights violations committed during that period.
How has Fujimori responded to the involvement of former ministers in her opponent’s team?
She has criticized the inclusion of former ministers from the Pedro Castillo administration—such as Rosendo Serna, Dimitri Senmache, Walter Ayala, and Andrés Alencastre—in Roberto Sánchez’s technical team, characterizing the group as a “Frankenstein político.”
What is the primary focus of her security proposals?
Fujimori has identified the need to restore public safety as a top priority, noting the prevalence of extortion affecting mototaxistas, transport workers, and musicians. She has expressed confidence that her team can regain control of the nation’s borders and prison system.
Will the electorate prioritize the endorsements of international leaders, or will domestic concerns remain the primary driver of the vote this Sunday?
