Former Minister of Economy and Finance Mercedes Aráoz has issued a stark warning regarding the upcoming electoral second round between Keiko Fujimori of Fuerza Popular and Roberto Sánchez of Juntos por el Perú. Speaking during the Día 1 Summit, Aráoz characterized the current political climate as more risky than the 2021 elections.
Aráoz specifically criticized Roberto Sánchez, stating that while he may appear as a “lamb,” she views him as a “wolf.” She expressed concern over his refusal to accept a roadmap and cited claims from Yehude Simon that Sánchez is capable of betraying others.
Institutional and Economic Risks
A primary point of contention is Sánchez’s stance that “human development” should be prioritized over “economic growth.” Aráoz countered this by arguing that economic growth is the essential foundation for providing services and improving quality of life, noting that World Bank documents prove that higher growth in Peru has historically reduced poverty.
Aráoz highlighted several “red flags” in the Juntos por el Perú platform, including threats to the independence of the Central Reserve Bank (BCR). She warned that a BCR without independence could lead to inflation, which she described as the most expensive tax for the poorest citizens.
Further concerns were raised regarding the influence of Antauro Humala, who supports the death penalty, and a proposal to have judges elected by the people. Aráoz compared the latter to experiments in Mexico, calling it a “disaster” that could place justice in the hands of those benefiting the government in power.
Critique of Fuerza Popular
While Aráoz indicated her support for Keiko Fujimori, she did not exempt the candidate from criticism. She described some of Fujimori’s proposals as “populist” and “effectist,” particularly regarding security measures and economic promises such as the universalization of Pensión 65 and various mega-projects.
Aráoz urged Fujimori to avoid economic populism and manage the fiscal deficit, which the Fiscal Council has described as being on an “explosive trajectory.” She suggested that the state cannot handle all investments alone and should rely on private investment, public-private partnerships, and “works for taxes.”
The Path to Consensus
Looking toward the Senate, Aráoz expressed hope that Fuerza Popular and Rafael López Aliaga’s Renovación Popular could find common ground. She noted that while dialogue can be difficult, reality often forces consensus on relevant national issues.
She also identified Jorge Nieto of the Partido del Buen Gobierno as a potential “fiel de la balanza” (tie-breaker). Because Nieto’s party represents a liberal, democratic left that believes in a social market economy, Aráoz believes he may help on issues relevant to the country.
Political Reconciliation
The possibility of national unity was underscored by a recent “emotional encounter” between Keiko Fujimori and former President Pedro Pablo Kuczynski (PPK). Fujimori shared on social media that both had been profoundly changed by personal situations in recent years.
Aráoz emphasized that political rivals should not be treated as lifelong enemies. She argued that the priority for any politician must be the well-being of Peruvians and the defense of democratic principles and the Constitution, rather than personal grudges.
To break the decade-long political cycle, Aráoz called for an end to personal attacks across business, press, and academic sectors. She suggested that the final debate between the candidates should focus on concrete proposals—such as reducing chronic malnutrition and anemia or improving national sanitation—rather than insults.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the candidates in the second round of the election?
The second round will be contested between Keiko Fujimori of Fuerza Popular and Roberto Sánchez of Juntos por el Perú.
What are the main risks associated with the Juntos por el Perú plan?
The primary risks mentioned include threats to the independence of the Central Reserve Bank, the proposal for the popular election of judges, and the influence of Antauro Humala.
What economic warnings did Mercedes Aráoz give regarding Keiko Fujimori?
She warned against economic populism and the need to manage the fiscal deficit, suggesting a greater reliance on private investment rather than solely public spending for mega-projects.
Do you believe that focusing on technical proposals over personal attacks can truly break the cycle of political crisis in Peru?
