Keiko Fujimori makes fourth run at Peru’s presidency

Keiko Fujimori previously ran for Peru’s presidency in 2011, 2016, and 2021, losing in the second round each time. (EPA Images pic)
TRUJILLO: Keiko Fujimori announced Thursday she will run for Peru’s presidency next year, marking her fourth attempt to lead the country once helmed by her father, dictator Alberto Fujimori, from 1990 to 2000.
The eldest daughter revealed her intentions to run as candidate for the conservative Popular Force at a party event.
“I want to announce my decision to run for the presidency of the republic,” the 50-year-old told hundreds of supporters wearing t-shirts with the slogan “Fujimori 2026,” per TV reports.
The move comes as Peruvians have mounted protests against rampant crime and years of political deadlock, under a system that has seen seven presidents come and go in a decade.
“The goal is to lead and rescue Peru from violence. I believe we have the capacity to confront this urban terrorism,” she said.
“We must take to the streets with the armed forces.”
Fujimori is polling at 7%, as is rival Mario Vizcarra. Both trail former Lima mayor Rafael Lopez Aliaga at 9%, according to the latest Ipsos poll.
Fujimori also ran in 2011, 2016 and 2021 – losing in the second round every time.
In her last attempt, she lost to leftist Pedro Castillo, a teacher-turned-activist.
Parties must choose their candidates in primaries on Nov 30, and the election will be held April 12 next year.
Fujimori made her political debut in 2006, when she was elected congresswoman for her father’s party.
Since then, she has become the face of Fujimorism in place of her father – who was sentenced to 25 years in prison for crimes against humanity and corruption.
He was imprisoned from 2009 to 2023, when he was released on a humanitarian pardon.
Alberto Fujimori died in 2024 at age 86.