Preelection: Presidential and legislative elections in Peru
On Sunday 12 April, Peru will hold general elections to determine the presidency and the two vice presidencies for the 2026–2031 term. At the same time, the country has reinstated a bicameral system, meaning that 130 deputies and 60 senators will also be elected, along with representatives to the Andean Parliament. If no presidential candidate secures more than 50% of the valid votes, a runoff will be held on 7 June.
Polling suggests a highly fragmented and uncertain scenario. With 36 candidates in the race, none surpasses 12% in voting intention. Rafael López Aliaga leads with around 11%, followed by Keiko Fujimori with close to 10%, in a context where blank and null votes, as well as undecided voters, approach 40%, reflecting a deep level of political disaffection.
At the legislative level, the return to bicameralism introduces a new institutional framework that could reshape political dynamics. Although a reduction in congressional fragmentation is expected, the next Executive will need to build majorities in both chambers to advance its agenda, in a context that will continue to require broad agreements and constant negotiation.