The return of Fujimori to politics: heading towards the Senate or the Presidency?

Former President Alberto Fujimori, 85 years old, has taken a new step in his return to the political arena by affiliating with Fuerza Popular, the party founded by his daughter Keiko Fujimori. This decision, made in the privacy of his home in San Borja, has sparked a wave of speculation about a possible candidacy of the former president for the Senate or even for the Presidency of the Republic in the upcoming general elections. Fujimori, in an exclusive statement to El Comercio, stated that he reaffirms his decision and willingness to take on all the risks that this entails. Fujimori's affiliation with Fuerza Popular comes at a time marked by his recent hospitalization in the ICU due to a fall that caused a hip fracture. His health, combined with the treatment he is receiving for a malignant tumor in his tongue, will be crucial in his active political participation. According to sources close to the orange party, his return to politics will depend on his positive response to medical treatment. Within Fujimorism, there seems to be no concern about the age or health of the former president, as they believe that his participation can be relevant and significant even virtually. It has been ruled out that Fujimori had threatened to join another party if his registration with Fuerza Popular was not formalized, as his affiliation occurred organically and naturally, without conflicts with his daughter Keiko. Fuerza Popular's Deputy Secretary General and spokesperson, Miguel Torres, has confirmed that the possibility of Fujimori running for office is being considered, just like any other party member. The importance of having his constant advice has been emphasized, regardless of his participation in the National Executive Committee or the Political Commission of the party. However, constitutional lawyers have pointed out that Fujimori's status as a convicted person, despite the pardon he received in 2017, could prevent his candidacy for an elected position. Despite differing interpretations of his legal situation, Fuerza Popular shows confidence in the viability of his political participation. Political analyst Paolo Sosa has indicated that Fuerza Popular's strategy in bringing Fujimori closer to the party aims to ensure a voting bloc that would allow them to reach the second round in a fragmented political scenario. The positive recollection that Fujimori still has among Peruvians, according to opinion polls, could be a determining factor in a potential electoral campaign. Amid these legal and political controversies, Alberto Fujimori's return to the Peruvian political scene raises questions about the future of Fujimorism and its strategy for the general elections. His affiliation with Fuerza Popular could be the first step on a path full of challenges and debates, in an increasingly complex and fragmented political landscape.