Fujimori Takes Charge in Peru Amidst U.S.-China Strategic Balancing Act

Keiko Fujimori is poised to return Fujimorism to Peru's presidential office on Tuesday, a political movement not in power for over a quarter-century. Fujimorism, a blend of neoliberalism, populism, and strict governance, defined her father Alberto Fujimori's presidency in the 1990s. Keiko Fujimori inherits a nation marked by social division, promising enhanced security, economic revitalization, and advancements in healthcare and education.

Beyond domestic agendas, Fujimori assumes leadership at a critical juncture for Peru, which has become a focal point in the escalating U.S.-China rivalry for influence in South America. Her administration's success will hinge on addressing internal challenges, including surging crime rates and the potential impacts of the El Niño weather pattern, which could bring drought, extreme heat, and flooding.

Security is slated as a top priority, with plans for increased video surveillance, a stronger police presence, harsher penalties for criminals and organized gangs, and nationwide command and control centers. The construction of four mega-prisons, similar to those in El Salvador, is also on the agenda. However, political science expert Eliana Carlin expresses concern that these measures, driven by strong ideological positions, could lead to the police and armed forces being solely subject to military jurisdiction, potentially impacting human rights.

Fujimori also aims to advance infrastructure projects, attract private investment, and modernize the country using technology and artificial intelligence. Yet, fulfilling these pledges is contingent on securing adequate funding, as infrastructure and essential services face significant deficits. The looming threat of El Niño further complicates economic recovery efforts.

Foreign policy presents another significant hurdle. The burgeoning Chancay port and logistics hub has elevated Peru's regional trade status and placed it at the center of geopolitical competition between Washington and Beijing. This $3.5 billion Chinese-backed project, part of the Belt and Road Initiative, is expected to drastically cut shipping times to Asia, transforming Chancay into a new gateway. China has become Peru's primary trading partner, with bilateral trade exceeding $40 billion in 2024, significantly more than the U.S.'s nearly $25 billion.

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Behind [these measures] lie strong ideological positions intended to justify making the police and the armed forces solely subject to military jurisdiction.