Peru's Independence Day: Fujimori Administration Takes Office Amid Protests

• Keiko Fujimori is set to be sworn in as President of Peru on July 28, marking the start of her administration amidst a backdrop of national crisis.
• The Fujimorist Fuerza Popular party has secured significant control, leading both the executive branch and the Senate.
• Widespread protests are planned in Lima, organized by civil society groups under the slogan "Keiko does not represent me."

Consolidation of Power

• The Senate leadership was won by Miguel Torres Morales (Fuerza Popular), supported by the right-wing Renovación Popular caucus.
• Under Peru's bicameral system, the Senate holds substantial power, including serving as a final legislative filter and appointing key officials to the Constitutional Court, Ombudsman’s Office, and Central Reserve Bank.
• The Chamber of Deputies is led by Congressman Oscar Reto Otero (Partido Buen Gobierno) with a coalition of left-wing parties.
• The Platform for Democracy and other organizations have alleged irregularities in the leadership elections, including vote-buying, press exclusion, and intimidation.

Cabinet Appointments

• Luis Galarreta, a long-time Fujimori ally, will chair the Council of Ministers.
• Elmer Cuba has been appointed as the Minister of Economy and Finance.
• Carlos Espá will serve as the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Civil Society Mobilization

• A "National March" is scheduled for July 28 at the Palace of Justice to protest the new administration.
• Participating groups include labor unions, environmentalists, university students, and families of victims from previous regimes.
• Key demands include:
  • A new national Constitution.
  • Justice for victims of the Merino and Boluarte regimes.
  • An end to the privatization of education.
  • Repeal of current pro-crime legislation.