'La toma de Lima' march planned to demand electoral transparency

A mobilization dubbed 'La toma de Lima' is scheduled for Friday, June 12, in Peru's capital, aiming to demand transparency in the ongoing presidential election count. The protest is being organized in support of presidential candidate Roberto Sánchez, whose party is Juntos por el Perú.

The demonstration arises amid significant anticipation for the final results of the general elections' second round. Official tallies show an extremely narrow difference between Sánchez and his opponent, Keiko Fujimori of Fuerza Popular, fueling concerns about the electoral process's integrity. Organizers state the march seeks to defend the expressed will of the voters.

In response to the planned protest, the Metropolitan Municipality of Lima (MML) has announced traffic restrictions in several strategic points within the Historic Center. Certain intersections will be closed to vehicular traffic, allowing only pedestrian access. The MML also indicated it will not permit gatherings or movement within a designated "rigid zone" in the Cercado de Lima, citing a council agreement that declares this sector intangible.

The security operation will focus on sensitive public spaces, including Plaza San Martín, Plaza Dos de Mayo, and Plaza de la Democracia, which have historically been sites for political demonstrations. While the exact route and timing remain unconfirmed, organizers suggest participants may converge at Plaza San Martín before potentially heading towards the Congress of the Republic, the Government Palace, or the headquarters of the National Jury of Elections (JNE).

Candidate Keiko Fujimori commented on the announced march, affirming that the law supports the right to protest as long as it is conducted within legal and constitutional boundaries. "In our country, citizens have the right to march, to express their different opinions. Everything is guaranteed, but this must be within the framework of the law, the Constitution, and respect for other citizens," she stated.

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In our country, citizens have the right to march, to express their different opinions. Everything is guaranteed, but this must be within the framework of the law, the Constitution, and respect for other citizens