Peru's Presidential Race: Right-Wing Candidates Lead Amid High Undecided Voter Rate

As Peru approaches its presidential election scheduled for April 12, 2026, two right-wing candidates are leading the polls, according to a recent Datum Internacional survey. Keiko Fujimori, the daughter of former president Alberto Fujimori, and Rafael Lopez Aliaga, the former mayor of Lima, are the only candidates polling in double digits, with Fujimori at 10.7% and Lopez Aliaga at 10%. However, a significant portion of the electorate remains undecided, with approximately 38% of voters either not planning to vote or declining to choose a candidate.

The political climate in Peru has been tumultuous, characterized by instability and frequent changes in leadership. Since 2018, the country has seen eight presidents, with four former leaders currently imprisoned. The recent removal of the latest president by a right-wing-controlled Congress, following allegations of secret meetings with a Chinese businessman, has further fueled voter discontent.

The high rate of undecided voters indicates a potential for a runoff election, which is typical in Peru, as no candidate has won outright in the first round since the late 1990s. Many voters are expected to make their decisions close to the election date, reflecting a climate of uncertainty and dissatisfaction with the current political options.

Critics of both leading candidates express concerns about their ability to address pressing issues such as corruption and economic instability. The political landscape is further complicated by the public's wariness of the right-wing Congress, which has been perceived as ineffective and self-serving.

Urpi Torrado, CEO of Datum Internacional, noted that the significant number of undecided voters suggests that many are still weighing their options. "Many of those who do vote will not decide until a week before the election," she stated, highlighting the fluid nature of voter sentiment.

While the Datum poll indicates a clear lead for Fujimori and Lopez Aliaga, other polls have shown fluctuating support among various candidates, including leftist Alfonso Lopez-Chau and businessman Cesar Acuna, who are both polling around 5%. This discrepancy underscores the volatility of the electoral landscape as the election date approaches.

In summary, the upcoming presidential election in Peru is marked by a competitive race between two right-wing candidates amid a backdrop of political instability and a significant number of undecided voters. The outcome remains uncertain as the electorate grapples with its choices.