Story perspectives

Record 35 Candidates Compete as Peru Faces Political Turmoil

4/12/2026

Center

Fujimori Faces Challenges

A record 35 candidates are vying for Peru's presidency amid political instability.
Keiko Fujimori leads the field, but her corruption history and the chaotic landscape raise doubts about her prospects.
Experts say illegal mining is largely ignored by candidates, with only 12 of 36 parties proposing measures.
Illegal mining, now the country’s largest illicit economy, expands due to soaring gold prices, pressuring the next government.

Left

Belmont Urges Integrity

Peru's presidential election in Lima features a record 35 candidates.
Ricardo Belmont, 80, closed his campaign by urging voters to reject corruption amid a decade of presidents under investigation.
Rafael Lopez Aliaga, a far-right former frontrunner, has fallen to 7% as his ties to U.S. President Donald Trump draw scrutiny.
Analysts say the race could go to a runoff between moderates as many voters remain undecided.

History

Historical Context

In 2000, Peru's political landscape shifted dramatically when President Alberto Fujimori fled amid corruption scandals, following a controversial re-election marred by fraud allegations. The National Jury of Elections reported 35 presidential candidates, reflecting widespread discontent. Today, figures like Keiko Fujimori face challenges linked to her father's legacy, while issues like illegal mining and rising gold prices underscore the need for effective governance in Peru.

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Fujimori Faces Challenges

A record 35 candidates are vying for Peru's presidency amid political instability.
Keiko Fujimori leads the field, but her corruption history and the chaotic landscape raise doubts about her prospects.
Experts say illegal mining is largely ignored by candidates, with only 12 of 36 parties proposing measures.
Illegal mining, now the country’s largest illicit economy, expands due to soaring gold prices, pressuring the next government.

1 / 3