A record-breaking field: What to expect from Peru’s presidential election

Peruvian voters will head to the polls on April 6, 2025, to elect a new president from a record-breaking field of 18 candidates, as the nation seeks to address profound crises of violent crime and systemic corruption that have fueled years of political instability. The election represents a critical juncture for a country that has seen six presidents in the last eight years, with the outgoing administration failing to quell public anger over economic struggles and governance failures. The sprawling ballot reflects a deeply fragmented political landscape where traditional parties have collapsed, giving rise to a mix of political newcomers, populists, and figures from the business world. Analysts note that no single candidate is projected to secure the outright majority needed to win in the first round, making a June runoff between the top two finishers highly probable. The campaign has been dominated by pledges to restore security, with homicide rates hitting record highs and organized crime expanding its grip, particularly in mining regions and urban centers. Beyond crime, the pervasive issue of corruption remains a central theme, following numerous scandals that have implicated former presidents and high-ranking officials. Voters express widespread disillusionment with the political class, seeking a leader who can deliver both stability and accountability. The outcome of this election will determine whether Peru can break its cycle of short-lived governments and begin to address the structural challenges that have hindered its development and eroded public trust in democratic institutions.