Peru's Fujimori seeks Congress powers to fight crime

Peru's new President Keiko Fujimori convened her first cabinet meeting, prioritizing a request to Congress for legislative powers to enact decrees aimed at combating crime. The government seeks to bolster citizen security, a key promise from Fujimori's campaign. The administration plans to deploy the armed forces to lead the fight against criminal elements in areas plagued by extortion, drug trafficking, and illegal mining.

During the 90-minute session, the cabinet reviewed several measures to enhance public safety. The request to Congress is intended to enable a more agile and effective state response to crime and the urgent needs of the population. Peru is currently facing its most severe security crisis in decades, with official figures showing a significant increase in homicides and extortion reports between 2018 and 2025.

Foreign Minister Carlos Espa expressed confidence that the opposition would support the request, stating that combating insecurity is a major demand from the Peruvian people. Earlier in the day, Fujimori was recognized by the Armed Forces and National Police as their supreme chief and participated in a military parade celebrating Peru's independence anniversary. Beyond security, her administration also plans to focus on prevention measures against the El Niño climate phenomenon, which could bring intense rains, droughts, and extreme heat, potentially impacting the economy and vulnerable regions.