By Sekaggya Seka Moses
Lima, Peru – Alberto Fujimori, the polarizing former president of Peru, has passed away at the age of 86, his family announced yesterday.
Fujimori’s Long Battle with Cancer
Fujimori had been struggling with various health issues, including tongue cancer, lung cancer, and heart problems, for several years.
His condition worsened in recent months, leading to his hospitalization.
Death and Tributes
Fujimori’s daughter, Keiko Fujimori, confirmed his death on social media, saying, “We ask those who loved him to join us in praying for the eternal rest of his soul.”
“A thank you to those who have accompanied us throughout his life and career. Thank you for so much, Dad!” Keiko Fujimori added.
A Turbulent Presidency
Alberto Fujimori’s presidency, spanning from 1990 to 2000, was marked by significant economic reforms, counterterrorism efforts, and authoritarian tendencies.
Upon taking office, Fujimori implemented drastic economic reforms aimed at stabilizing Peru’s economy.
These measures, known as “Fujishock,” included privatizing state-owned enterprises, introducing neoliberal policies, reducing government subsidies, and increasing foreign investment.
The reforms led to reduced inflation, increased foreign investment, and economic growth.
However, they also had negative consequences, such as increased unemployment and poverty, widening income inequality, and reduced social spending.
Fujimori’s presidency was also characterized by authoritarian tendencies and human rights abuses, including the dissolution of Congress and the judiciary in 1992.
Fujimori’s government successfully combated leftist rebel groups, defeating the Shining Path rebel group and capturing its leader, Abimael Guzmán.
However, the counterterrorism efforts were also marred by human rights abuses, including military atrocities against civilians and forced displacement of communities.
A corruption scandal involving Vladimiro Montesinos led to Fujimori’s downfall. Montesinos bribed politicians, judges, and media outlets, and Fujimori resigned and fled to Japan in 2000.
Trial and Imprisonment
In 2005, Fujimori traveled to Chile, where he was arrested and extradited to Peru in 2007.
He was put on trial for human rights abuses, corruption, and authorizing the killings of 25 people by the military.
In 2009, Fujimori was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison for human rights abuses.
Fujimori’s health issues led to his transfer to a prison hospital, where he served his sentence. In 2023, he was released from prison due to health reasons and placed under house arrest.
Legacy
Fujimori’s legacy remains divisive. His economic reforms stabilized the economy, but his authoritarian tendencies and human rights abuses left deep scars. Peruvians continue to debate the impact of his presidency.
Reactions
Peruvian President Dina Boluarte expressed condolences to Fujimori’s family, acknowledging his “importance in Peru’s history.”
The opposition leader and former presidential candidate, Pedro Castillo, criticized Fujimori’s authoritarian rule and human rights record.