Will Peru’s new leader Keiko Fujimori reject her father’s legacy?

Keiko Fujimori has made history by becoming Peru's first female president, securing victory on her fourth attempt after a 15-year political journey. Her election marks a significant political shift, positioning Peru as the latest country in Latin America to move towards the right.

Fujimori narrowly defeated her left-wing rival, a victory that underscores the deep divisions within the country. Many Peruvians remain skeptical about her ability to fulfill her promise of national unity. A primary concern is whether her presidency will emulate the legacy of her father, the late President Alberto Fujimori, who was convicted and imprisoned for human rights abuses and corruption.

Her path to the presidency has been long and arduous, marked by previous electoral defeats. This latest win, however, places her at the helm of a nation grappling with political polarization and historical controversies. The question of whether she will complete her term, or if her presidency will be short-lived, remains a central point of discussion.

Analysts like Jose Ragas, a historian and assistant professor at the Catholic University of Chile, Renata Segura from the International Crisis Group, and Christopher Sabatini, Director of the Latin America Programme at Chatham House, are weighing in on the implications of her victory. Their insights will be crucial in understanding the potential direction of Peru under Fujimori's leadership, particularly concerning her approach to governance and her father's controversial past.