29/07/2026 15:04 - Internacionales
July 28, 2026 – Lima, Peru
In a historic ceremony, Keiko Sofía Fujimori Higuchi was sworn in as President of Peru on July 28, 2026, for the period 2026–2031, marking a milestone as the first woman to hold the office. The solemn event took place in the Hemicycle of Sessions of the bicameral Congress, attended by a distinguished delegation of foreign leaders, including King Felipe VI of Spain, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, and Argentine President Javier Milei.
In her first Message to the Nation, lasting about an hour, the president set seven government objectives focused on security, economic recovery, infrastructure, and a digital state—a crucial agenda for a country that has seen eight presidents since 2016. She called for unity, stating: 'There are not two different Perus; there is one Peru, vibrant, multicultural, strong, and millennial, ready to stand up.'
The government will concentrate efforts on mitigating the El Niño phenomenon and improving public safety. It will issue emergency decrees and request delegated powers. The Armed Forces will take control of internal security to combat organized crime and drug trafficking.
Launch of the 'Youth with Future' program to halve youth unemployment (currently at 10%). Increase of the minimum wage to S/ 1,300 (about $350 USD), with a compensatory bonus for micro and small businesses.
An ambitious plan includes completing Line 2 of the Lima Metro and executing Lines 3, 4, 5, and 6. Additionally, metro systems in Arequipa, Piura, and Trujillo, commuter trains Lima–Ica and Lima–Barranca, along with 8 key highway projects.
State deregulation to eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy. Creation of the National Digital Authority and delivery of a digital identity backed by artificial intelligence to every citizen to streamline procedures.
Doubling of the Pensión 65 benefit, from S/ 350 to S/ 700 (about $190 USD) bimonthly, as a step toward universal pension. Commitment to halve chronic malnutrition and anemia in children under five.
Firm commitment to respect for the independence of powers and individual liberties, including freedom of expression and press. Improved access to judicial services through meritocratic mechanisms.
Boost to the Pacific Alliance and the Andean Community. Prioritization of Peru's role in APEC and opening opportunities with the Middle East, aiming to consolidate the country as 'the bridge' between continents.
Argentine President Javier Milei played an active role in Lima. After a bilateral meeting with Fujimori, where they highlighted their political affinity and 'common friends,' Milei was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of San Martín de Porres.
In his academic speech, Milei reviewed his administration and made a key announcement: a national broadcast on Thursday, July 30 at 8:00 p.m. (local time) to explain the reform of the Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA) Charter. The initiative seeks to establish prison sentences for unbacked monetary issuance, prohibit financing of the Treasury, and 'shield' the independence of the board, requiring a two-thirds congressional majority for removal.
Argentine actress Fátima Flórez also attended the inauguration as a personal guest of the new president, with whom she shares a friendship. She took the opportunity to tour Lima and expressed her support for Fujimori.
With a call for reconciliation ('The true enemies are the great and serious problems of Peru'), Keiko Fujimori began her 1,826 days in office with the hope of leading a united country on the path to development. The international community watches this new chapter in Peruvian history with keen interest.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
