The presidential elections in Peru continue without a definitive result one week after the vote. Although the conservative candidate Keiko Fujimori remains at the forefront of the count, it is still not clear who will achieve the second ticket for the presidential runoff, scheduled for next June 7.
The remaining seat is being contested by the leftist Roberto Sánchez and the far-rightist Rafael López Aliaga, separated by a minimal distance that keeps the count open.
Thousands of votes still to be reviewed
The delay is due to the existence of thousands of observed, challenged, or incident-ridden minutes that must still be reviewed by electoral bodies and the Peruvian justice system.
That procedure could drag on for several weeks, so the official proclamation is not expected until mid-May.
The narrow difference between Sánchez and López Aliaga prevents, for now, confirming who will face Fujimori in the second round.
Keiko leads, but without a clear victory
Although Keiko Fujimori leads the count, her advantage does not allow her to avoid a runoff, as no candidate has reached the necessary percentage to win in the first round.
The daughter of former president Alberto Fujimori will thus seek a new opportunity to reach the presidency after several failed attempts in previous elections.
Political tension and cross-accusations
The uncertainty has increased political tension in the country. Rafael López Aliaga has denounced possible irregularities without providing conclusive evidence, while electoral authorities have asked for prudence and respect for the review process.
Peru faces a new phase of institutional uncertainty after years of political instability, with several presidential changes, clashes between branches of government, and an increasingly fragmented society at the polls.