Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori has died at the age of 86 after a battle with cancer. Fujimori, a son of Japanese immigrants, was first elected in 1990 and is known for implementing crucial economic reforms, including combating hyperinflation and privatizing state-owned enterprises, which contributed to Peru’s economic stability.
His presidency also saw the capture of Abimael Guzmán, leader of the Maoist Shining Path insurgency, significantly weakening the group’s threat to the state. However, Fujimori’s leadership was also marked by autocratic measures, such as dissolving Congress in 1992 to consolidate power and pass new anti-terrorism laws.
Despite his achievements, Fujimori’s tenure was marred by corruption scandals, notably involving his advisor Vladimiro Montesinos. Following these scandals, Fujimori fled to Japan in 2000, where he resigned from office and lived in exile. His attempt to return to Peru in 2005 led to his arrest in Chile and subsequent extradition.
In 2009, Fujimori was convicted of human rights abuses and corruption, receiving a 25-year prison sentence. His health issues, including cancer, led to multiple hospital visits and a controversial pardon in 2017, which was later overturned. Fujimori was ultimately released in 2023 following another reinstated pardon due to his severe health condition.
Fujimori’s legacy is highly contentious. While some commend his role in stabilizing Peru’s economy and combating insurgencies, others criticize his authoritarian practices and human rights violations. His daughter, Keiko Fujimori, has been a vocal supporter of his legacy and continues to influence Peruvian politics.
