What to know about Peru's election for president and Congress
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Peru is holding a presidential election with 35 candidates, including a former minister, a comedian, and political heiress Keiko Fujimori, amid rising violent crime and corruption that have eroded public trust in politicians.
- Crime is a top concern for voters, with homicides doubling and extortion increasing fivefold over the past decade; many candidates propose tough measures like megaprisons, stricter prisoner controls, and the death penalty.
- Voting is mandatory for Peruvians aged 18 to 70, with over 27 million registered voters; a runoff in June is expected due to the fragmented electorate and large candidate pool.
- Besides the presidency, Peruans will vote for a new bicameral Congress, which will grant significant power to the Senate, including easier presidential impeachment and appointing key officials, despite previous public opposition to this system.
- Experts warn the new Senate’s concentrated power could increase corruption risks, as it can remove presidents with fewer votes and has broad authority over legislation and high-level appointments.
