Peru will head to the polls on April 12, 2026 to elect a new president, marking a pivotal moment for a nation grappling with years of political turmoil.
President Dina Boluarte announced the date on Tuesday, pledging a fair and transparent election to restore stability. The vote comes amid ongoing concerns over insecurity and social polarization, following a period of rapid leadership changes and the controversial removal of former President Pedro Castillo.
Peruvian President Dina Boluarte has announced that the country’s presidential elections will take place on April 12, 2026. She emphasized that the vote will mark the end of political instability that has fueled insecurity and social polarization in recent years.
“We will ensure an electoral process with all the guarantees that democracy deserves,” Boluarte stated, pledging that her government will remain neutral and impartial to uphold a transparent and orderly election.
Alongside choosing a new president, Peruvians will also elect deputies, senators, and representatives to the Andean Parliament.
Peru has experienced deep political turbulence, with six presidents in just six years. The country’s Constitution allows Congress to remove a president if two-thirds of its members declare them « morally incapacitated. »
Former President Pedro Castillo, facing multiple corruption investigations, attempted to dissolve Congress and rule by decree in December 2022. Lawmakers swiftly ousted him, replacing him with Boluarte, who became Peru’s first female president. Castillo was later arrested on charges of rebellion and conspiracy while attempting to flee to the Mexican Embassy.
With the upcoming election, Peruvians hope for a new chapter of stability and democratic renewal.
