Peru on Edge: Election Count Advances as Concerns Over Security and Health Grow
The electoral process in Peru is at a critical stage following the 2026 presidential runoff. The National Office of Electoral Processes (ONPE) continues the vote count, where the gap between candidates Roberto Sánchez and Keiko Fujimori is narrowing. Given the delay in processing the records, ONPE has proposed a legal reform to speed up the delivery of results in the future and avoid public uncertainty.
The electoral situation is complicated by a large number of challenged records, especially in the districts of Ate and San Juan de Lurigancho, where the pending vote could be decisive. To resolve these doubts, the Special Electoral Juries (JEE) will begin public hearings this Friday in Lambayeque and Puerto Maldonado. Additionally, the Ombudsman's Office union has warned of possible irregularities in the massive collection of records and the presence of unauthorized external personnel during voting day.
On the other hand, citizen insecurity is gravely affecting the transport sector. The transport union reported that 100% of companies suffer from extortion and that, so far in 2026, 64 drivers have been murdered. Sector leaders point out that the problem has worsened and demand urgent measures from the National Police in the face of increasing violence that puts workers' lives at risk.
In the police sphere, a robbery against a worker from the television program "Magaly TV, la firme" was also reported. Criminals assaulted the person in charge of the technical equipment and, following this event, the program's production has released images of the suspects and is offering a reward for their identification and capture. This incident highlights the climate of insecurity experienced daily on the streets of the capital.
Regarding road safety, the parents of two young people who died in a recent accident on the Vía de Evitamiento demand an exhaustive investigation. The families believe that a third vehicle was involved in the crash and are requesting immediate access to security camera recordings to clarify the facts. The tragedy has shocked neighbors, who hope that authorities will determine the real circumstances of the event.
In public health matters, Edith Abarca Gómez, a woman with diabetes and visual impairment, used the media to ask for urgent help. Edith has been trying to get a medical appointment at the EsSalud Chosica Polyclinic for a month, but she is constantly informed that there are no slots available. Her case highlights the serious difficulties and barriers faced by patients with chronic diseases and disabilities in the Peruvian health system.
Finally, on a positive note, the organization Plan International launched a regional campaign to use sports as a tool for social protection. The goal is to strengthen safe spaces that contribute to well-being, promote equality, and prevent violence against girls and adolescents. This initiative seeks to empower young women and improve their quality of life through physical activity and teamwork.