Keiko Fujimori has officially been declared the President-elect of Peru, securing a razor-thin victory in the 2026 presidential elections.
The National Elections Board’s proclamation on July 3, 2026, marks her fourth attempt at the presidency and signals a continuation of the rightward shift in Latin American politics.
The European Union (EU) swiftly congratulated Fujimori, emphasizing shared values and a commitment to deepening cooperation with the new administration.
Fujimori, a conservative candidate, won with 50.135% of the vote in the June 7 runoff, narrowly defeating leftist congressman Roberto Sanchez, who garnered 49.865%.
The margin of victory was approximately 50,000 votes out of 18 million cast, highlighting the deep polarization within the Andean nation.
Sanchez, who had strong support in
rural areas, has alleged electoral fraud without providing evidence and has vowed not to recognize Fujimori’s govt, even filing a complaint with the Inter- American Commission on Human Rights.
The election unfolded against a backdrop of significant political instability in Peru, which seen several presidents ousted over the past decade.
Fujimori’s win means she will be the 10th president since 2016, taking office on July 28. Her campaign focused on
cracking down on rising crime, message that resonated with voters amidst an uptick in extortion, kidnappings, and contract killings.
The EU, which deployed an Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) to Peru, reiterated its support for inclusive dialogue, strengthening the rule of law, and democratic institutions.
The EOM’s presence aimed to contribute to the transparency and credibility of the electoral process.
The EU looks forward to working with President-elect Fujimori to enhance
political dialogue and cooperation in areas such as investment, trade, security, multilateral affairs, and sustainable development, including through the Global Gateway Investment Agenda.
Fujimori, 51, is the daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, a controversial figure who governed from 1990 to 2000.
While credited with combating Maoist insurgents and hyperinflation, her father was later jailed for human rights abuses.
Keiko Fujimori herself has faced investigations over campaign financing, spending time in jail between 2018 and
2020, though charges were dropped last year.
Her victory has been welcomed by
markets, with Moody’s suggesting it will boost investor confidence and potentially unlock delayed mining projects in Peru, the world’s third-largest copper producer.
As Fujimori prepares to take office, she faces the challenge of uniting a fragmented nation and navigating a Congress prone to political upheaval.
The country’s economic divide between the capital, Lima, and rural regions, where Sanchez found strong support, remains a significant hurdle.
