Peru is approaching a decisive presidential runoff election on June 7, in what many analysts describe as one of the country’s most consequential elections in years.
After a fragmented first round featuring dozens of candidates, voters must now choose between conservative politician Keiko Fujimori and left-wing congressman Roberto Sánchez. The election is taking place amid deep political polarization, rising crime, economic concerns, and widespread distrust of state institutions.
Political Instability: Peru’s Constant Challenge
Peru has experienced extraordinary political instability over the past decade, marked by a succession of presidents who have ended up imprisoned, impeached, embroiled in corruption scandals, or caught in institutional crises. The winner of the June runoff will become the country’s ninth president in roughly ten years and will take office on July 28 for a five-year term—provided they are not removed from office or jailed beforehand.
The election follows a first round held in April, in which no candidate came close to securing the absolute majority needed to win outright. Fujimori finished first with approximately 17% of the vote, while Sánchez received about 12%, earning both candidates a place in the runoff.
Recent polls continue to show a slight advantage for Keiko Fujimori over Sánchez.
Peru’s Presidential Candidates
Keiko Fujimori is the more conservative candidate and represents the Fuerza Popular party. She is seeking the presidency for the fourth time. The daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori, a highly significant figure in Peruvian history, he is remembered by supporters for defeating insurgent groups and stabilizing the economy. Critics, however, point to his authoritarian tendencies and the human rights violations committed during his administration, which some nonetheless justify in the name of law and order.
Her campaign has emphasized tougher policies against both domestic and international crime, advocating for stronger police forces and enhanced security measures. She also promotes economic stability, market-friendly policies, stricter immigration controls, and reforms aimed at strengthening institutional order and governance.
During the final debate, Fujimori defended measures such as deploying more security forces and adopting tougher responses to organized crime, an issue that has become increasingly central to politics in Peru and across the region.
Roberto Sánchez is a left-wing nationalist representing the Juntos por el Perú party. A congressman and former minister, he emerged as the surprise candidate of the left. He has sought to distance himself from more radical positions, presenting himself as a reformist committed to reducing inequality and strengthening public institutions—issues of major importance in the Andean nation.
His platform includes policies focused on industrial development and economic diversification, police reform, anti-corruption measures, greater state involvement in economic development, expanded social welfare programs, and stronger support for regions outside Lima. Sánchez argues that Peru needs deep structural reforms rather than simply tougher security policies.
What Do the Latest Polls Show? Why Is the Race Still So Competitive?
The contest remains extremely close. Much attention has been paid to the high proportion of undecided voters and those who may cast blank or invalid ballots. In several surveys, more than 20% of the electorate has yet to clearly support either candidate.
An Ipsos poll conducted on May 29 and 30 gave Fujimori 40.4% voting intention compared with 38.3% for Sánchez. When considering only valid votes, her lead widens slightly to 51.4% versus 48.6%.
A Datum Internacional survey found similar results: 39.8% for Fujimori and 35.9% for Sánchez, with a very high percentage of undecided voters or those planning to vote blank or null.
Reuters reported that both polls show a narrow lead for Fujimori but emphasize that nearly a quarter of the electorate remains undecided, keeping the election wide open.
Finally, it is important to note that Peru remains geographically divided. Fujimori performs strongly in Lima and certain urban areas, while Sánchez maintains advantages in rural regions, the south, and the Amazon basin. However, both candidates face significant levels of public rejection. Fujimori continues to encounter opposition due to the political legacy of Fujimorismo, while Sánchez faces questions regarding his political alliances and governing capabilities.
Internationally, the U.S. ambassador to Peru stressed the importance of transparent elections, while former regional leaders such as Iván Duque openly expressed support for Keiko Fujimori.
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