Peru lives its ninth presidential change in 10 years; Keiko Fujimori seeks to end political instability in the country

Peru inaugurated Keiko Fujimori as its new president on Tuesday, marking the country's ninth presidential transition in a decade. Fujimori, the first woman to hold the nation's highest office, secured a narrow victory in the recent election, winning by fewer than 50,000 votes over her leftist opponent, Roberto Sánchez. Her presidency signals the return of the Fujimori political movement to power, nearly 26 years after her father, former President Alberto Fujimori, resigned amid a corruption scandal.

Fujimori, the political heir of the late Alberto Fujimori, has long pursued the presidency with the goal of restoring her father's legacy and clearing his name. Her path to the top office was arduous, marked by three consecutive losses in second-round elections in 2011, 2016, and 2021. She also spent nearly 18 months in pre-trial detention between 2018 and 2020, facing accusations of money laundering related to campaign financing.

Unlike many of her predecessors, Fujimori appears to have substantial backing in Parliament, which could allow her to complete her five-year term through 2031. This parliamentary support is seen as crucial for combating the political instability that has led to frequent presidential ousters orchestrated by the legislature, often with the support of the Fujimorista bloc.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by several heads of state and government, including King Felipe VI of Spain, and the presidents of Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Former Latin American leaders and high-ranking officials also attended, underscoring the regional significance of Fujimori's ascent.