Colombian candidate backs Fujimori ahead of Peru runoff

Colombian presidential candidate Abelardo de la Espriella has publicly backed Keiko Fujimori, who is set to face leftist Roberto Sánchez in Peru's presidential runoff election. De la Espriella, a right-wing candidate himself, framed the election as a critical moment for democracy in the region.

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Keiko, like me, faces a radical leftist candidate in Peru and tomorrow will live a decisive day for the democracy of the region. To the Peruvian people, I send a fraternal greeting, with the wish that they choose well for the health of their Republic and for the future of all of Latin America.

In a message shared on X, formerly Twitter, De la Espriella sent his "fraternal greetings" to the Peruvian people, expressing his hope they would make a choice that benefits the health of their republic and the future of Latin America. During a video call with Fujimori, he praised her "commitment to democracy" and called her an "unrelenting fighter." He noted that both he and Fujimori were the top vote-getters in the first round of their respective presidential elections.

De la Espriella suggested that Colombia and Peru could collaborate on a joint agenda focused on strengthening trade relations, defending freedoms, and combating organized crime. He expressed his hope that both he and Fujimori would win their respective elections and work to deepen ties between the two nations.

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It is time for Peru to have a president with your qualities, your patriotism, and your commitment. You have been an unrelenting fighter for democracy.

Fujimori, in turn, thanked De la Espriella for his support, acknowledging his "bravery" and the personal risks involved in political engagement. She recognized that political sacrifice extends to one's family. The election in Peru is a runoff between Fujimori and Sánchez, with the winner becoming the country's ninth president in a decade marked by significant political instability.

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You are putting many things at risk (...) I congratulate you and above all I congratulate your family because when one enters politics, the sacrifice is for everyone.