Lima: Keiko Fujimori was sworn in as Peru's president Tuesday, becoming the country's first democratically elected female head of state. As she began her 2026-2031 term, the 51-year-old conservative leader wasted no time unveiling a hardline security agenda, authorizing the Armed Forces to assume responsibility for maintaining public order in regions most affected by organized crime.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fujimori declared a "war" on criminal organizations, drug traffickers, and illegal mining operations across the Andean nation during her speech before the Legislative Palace in Lima. She stated that during states of emergency, the Armed Forces would temporarily lead security operations, closely coordinating with the National Police to reclaim control in areas dominated by criminal activities. Fujimori also pledged to strengthen the National Police through increased political support, improved equipment, and expanded authority.
To address economic challenges, Fujimori announced a 15% increase in the national minimum wage, raising it from 1,130 soles ($332) to 1,300 soles ($382) per month. She reaffirmed her commitment to Peru's free-market economic framework while advancing public security reforms.
The inauguration ceremony highlighted political polarization within the chamber. Opposition lawmakers, including members of Juntos por el Peru and Ahora Nacion, staged a walkout seconds before Fujimori's speech. Dressed in black and wearing mourning ribbons, they protested by shouting "Justice for the victims!" and holding images of individuals who died during the government of her father, the late Alberto Fujimori.
Despite domestic tensions, the inauguration attracted high-profile international dignitaries, including King Felipe VI of Spain and several regional presidents such as Daniel Noboa of Ecuador, Jose Antonio Kast of Chile, Rodrigo Paz of Bolivia, and Javier Milei of Argentina. During a meeting with President Milei, Fujimori discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation in strategic areas such as the economy, security, science, technology, and innovation.
Fujimori's rise to the presidency signifies a broader rightward shift across Latin America, as voters increasingly turn to conservative governance in response to economic uncertainty and rising crime rates.