Keiko Fujimori Becomes Peru's First Elected Female President

On July 28, 2026, Keiko Fujimori was sworn in as the first woman democratically elected as president of Peru. In her inaugural address to Congress, Fujimori declared a war on drug trafficking, illegal mining, and organized crime. She announced that the armed forces will temporarily assume internal control during states of emergency, working in coordination with the National Police to restore state authority.

To combat economic stagnation, Fujimori implemented a 15% increase in the national minimum wage, raising it from 1,130 to 1,300 soles. The ceremony, which coincided with Peru's independence anniversary, saw opposition lawmakers stage a walkout to protest the legacy of her father, Alberto Fujimori. The event was attended by international leaders, including Spain's King Felipe VI and Argentina's President Javier Milei.

Global reactions to the inauguration were positive. Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India extended congratulations, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted 200 years of diplomatic relations and signaled the Trump Administration's intent to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, and security. In New Delhi, the Qutb Minar was illuminated in red and white to commemorate Peru's 205th Independence Day.