Summary
Peru is holding its presidential and legislative elections to choose a new leader, the ninth in under ten years. The election comes amid political instability with no clear favorite among the 35 candidates, making a second round of voting likely. Polls show low support for even the major candidates, including Keiko Fujimori, the daughter of a former leader.
Key Facts
- Peru is voting for its ninth president since 2018 due to high turnover from impeachments and corruption.
- The election involves 27 million eligible voters and 35 presidential candidates.
- Polling stations are open from 7 am to 5 pm, with preliminary results expected shortly after closing.
- No candidate is currently polling above 50%, making a run-off election likely.
- Keiko Fujimori is a well-known candidate, running for president for the fourth time.
- Fujimori's candidacy is divisive due to her father's past as a convicted former president.
- Political parties range widely, including candidates like a comedian and a former mayor.
- Voter sentiment is largely negative, with many expressing disappointment with current and past leaders.