What's happened
Peru is observing three days of national mourning for former president Alberto Fujimori, who died of cancer at age 86. His legacy remains polarizing, with supporters praising his economic reforms and critics condemning his authoritarian rule and human rights abuses during his presidency from 1990 to 2000.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Guardian's Dan Collyns notes the emotional farewell for Fujimori, highlighting the divided opinions on his legacy. Supporters gathered to honor him, while critics, like Gisela Ortiz, condemned the government's tribute, stating, 'Fujimori dies, convicted of human rights violations and corruption.' The South China Morning Post emphasizes the nostalgia felt by many for Fujimori's rule, with supporters claiming, 'Fujimorism never dies.' In contrast, Al Jazeera points out the brutal tactics employed during his presidency, including forced sterilizations and a self-coup in 1992, which have left a lasting impact on Peruvian society. This divergence in perspectives illustrates the ongoing debate over Fujimori's legacy and its implications for Peru's future.
How we got here
Alberto Fujimori served as Peru's president from 1990 to 2000, gaining notoriety for his harsh measures against terrorism and economic reforms. His tenure ended in scandal, leading to his exile and subsequent imprisonment for human rights violations. He was released from prison in December 2023 on humanitarian grounds.
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Peru, officially the Republic of Peru, is a country in western South America. It is bordered in the north by Ecuador and Colombia, in the east by Brazil, in the southeast by Bolivia, in the south by Chile, and in the west by the Pacific Ocean.
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