Keiko Fujimori Sworn in as President of Peru
Keiko Fujimori, the daughter of former president Alberto Fujimori, officially became the president of Peru on Tuesday, marking the beginning of a five-year term that will last until 2031.
Having previously served as the first lady during her father’s administration, Fujimori is the tenth president in the last decade. This period for Peru has been marked by significant political instability, where no president has managed to complete a full term since 2016.
Elected in June following delays in vote counting, Fujimori’s win came after three narrow losses in previous elections—2021, 2016, and 2011. Her election continues a trend of conservative leadership across Latin America in recent years. She has expressed intentions to work with the United States on combating transnational organized crime and to join the regional security coalition called the Shield of the Americas.
The inauguration coincided with Peru’s independence anniversary, which celebrates its liberation on July 28, 1821. The date also marks the 36th anniversary of Alberto Fujimori’s inauguration in 1990 and would have been his 88th birthday, as he passed away in 2024.
The ceremony began with a Mass at Lima Cathedral, a traditional start for such events. Following that, Fujimori visited Congress to be sworn in as president.
A delegation from the U.S., led by Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, was present to represent the government. Landau even shared a photo linking him to Alberto Fujimori through his late father, who was a U.S. diplomat.
Fujimori was joined by several heads of state from the region, including Javier Milei from Argentina and Jose Antonio Kast from Chile, highlighting international support for her administration.
During her first address to Congress, which coincided with Independence Day celebrations, Fujimori noted that leftist coalition lawmakers did not attend. She emphasized the need for change, stating that her administration is inheriting a “drift” characterized by political disarray and a decline in basic services.
She was careful to set realistic expectations, stating she wasn’t offering “empty promises” but intended to tackle the social deficit and revive economic growth.
“From now on, the clock is ticking,” she said, implying a serious commitment to her presidency by noting there are 1,826 days in her term.
In her speech, Fujimori underlined two national emergencies her administration will focus on: the recurring El Niño phenomenon and pervasive insecurity. She articulated plans for proactive measures to prepare for potential impacts of these issues.
Fujimori concluded by calling for unity among the people to face challenges together, stressing that societal issues like hunger and crime should not divide Peruvians.
She reflected on the vibrant, diverse nature of Peru and expressed her determination to govern with empathy and resolve. “The clock has started ticking,” she reiterated, highlighting a commitment to serving her country over the next several years.
As part of the annual festivities, Peru also observes July 29 as the “Day of the Grand Parade and Militia Parade,” celebrating the nation’s independence.
Following her swearing-in, Fujimori assumed her role as the supreme commander of the military, leading the military parade to commemorate the 205th anniversary of Peru’s independence.
