Alberto Fujimori, the former president of Peru, passed away at the age of 86 on September 11, 2024, after a prolonged illness. Fujimori served as president from 1990 until his controversial resignation in 2000, during which he earned a reputation as a polarizing figure in Peruvian politics. His tenure is notable for his aggressive tactics against terrorist groups such as the Shining Path, which included significant military actions that some argue contributed to human rights violations.
After fleeing to Japan amid a corruption scandal, Fujimori made a surprising return to Peru in 2005 but was arrested, subsequently convicted in 2009 of human rights abuses and corruption. His convictions included his involvement in death squad killings and forced sterilizations during his administration. Despite his legal troubles, Fujimori still maintained a mixed legacy within Peru. Some citizens regard him as a hero for stabilizing the economy and reducing terrorism, while others view him as a dictator who perpetrated grave violations against human rights.
His death sparked varied reactions across the country. Many Fujimori supporters mourned the loss of a leader they felt brought progress to Peru, while opponents commemorated the victims of his regime's abuses. In the wake of his passing, conversations around his complicated legacy are expected to resurface, reigniting debates on governance, human rights, and national identity within Peru.
Fujimori's complex life and presidency continue to evoke strong emotions, underscoring the enduring impact he had on Peruvian society and politics.