Keiko Fujimori, a conservative politician and daughter of a former president, has been declared the winner of Peru's presidential runoff election. Fujimori, 51, is set to become Peru's ninth president in a decade, marking her fourth attempt at the office amidst ongoing political instability.
She secured victory with 50.14% of the vote, narrowly defeating nationalist congressman Roberto Sánchez, who garnered 49.87%. The final vote count certified by Peru's top election authority showed Fujimori with 9,223,000 votes to Sánchez's 9,173,000.
Fujimori expressed gratitude to her supporters via a post on X, stating, "I receive with profound gratitude the trust that millions of Peruvians have placed in me. A new stage begins. We assume it with responsibility, humility, and a deep sense of duty." She added, "Each day of this transition process is an opportunity to listen, engage in dialogue, and arrive prepared at the start of the new government."
Her victory comes as voters have voiced significant concerns about surging crime, particularly extortion by organized crime gangs. Fujimori has pledged to adopt a tough stance against crime, advocating for an "iron fist" approach.
Fujimori's political lineage is notable as she is the daughter of former President Alberto Fujimori. His presidency in the 1990s was credited with defeating the Shining Path rebel group but also characterized by an authoritarian shift. He was later convicted of human rights abuses and corruption, and his legacy remains a divisive issue in Peru.
The U.S. State Department congratulated Fujimori on Tuesday, stating that the administration "looks forward to deepening collaboration with the Fujimori administration to advance security cooperation and to strengthen bilateral cooperation on investment and trade in our region."