The controversial candidacy of Alberto Fujimori: Criminal record and fragile health challenge his candidacy in Peru.

Former Peruvian president Alberto Fujimori, controversial due to his criminal background and fragile health, has caused a stir by announcing his intention to run for a third presidential term in the 2026 elections. The news was confirmed by his daughter, Keiko Fujimori, leader of the main right-wing party in Peru, who announced through her social media the decision made jointly with her father, despite the challenges this entails. Fujimori, of Japanese descent, ruled Peru with a firm hand during the 1990s, being recognized for defeating the Maoist guerrilla group Shining Path. However, his legacy is marked by convictions for human rights violations, including two massacres of civilians committed by an army squadron under his command. After serving 16 years in prison for these crimes, he was released in 2023 through a controversial pardon granted by international bodies. One of the main legal obstacles Fujimori faces for his candidacy is an outstanding civil reparation debt of approximately $15.5 million, stemming from previous judicial convictions. Legal experts have pointed out that the pardon granted to the former president does not eliminate his criminal responsibility, which could prevent him from running for the presidency of Peru again. Despite the legal uncertainty, Keiko Fujimori has made it clear that she does not plan to accompany her father as a vice-presidential candidate, preferring to focus on her role as party president to support the electoral campaign. The Fujimorism, with a strong presence in the Peruvian Congress, is preparing to support Alberto Fujimori's candidacy, consolidating its position in national politics. The delicate health of the former president also poses a significant challenge on his path to the presidency. It was recently revealed that Fujimori has a malignant tumor on his tongue, in addition to previous health issues such as a lung tumor detected in 2018 and a recent hip accident. His health condition will be a determining factor in his ability to assume a potential presidency in 2026. Despite the difficulties he faces, Keiko Fujimori has expressed confidence in her father's recovery and his ability to lead the country. However, the legal uncertainty and health challenges raise questions about the viability of Alberto Fujimori's candidacy. Electoral authorities have not yet commented on the matter, leaving the former president's participation in the upcoming presidential elections in Peru in suspense.