Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori Dies at 86

Alberto Fujimori, the former president of Peru, died on September 11 at the age of 86 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Fujimori, who governed from 1990 until 2000, is a deeply polarizing figure, credited by some for defeating Maoist insurgents and reviving the economy, while others condemn his authoritarian rule and human rights abuses that led to his conviction for corruption and crimes against humanity. Released from prison on humanitarian grounds in December 2023, he had been serving a 25-year sentence for his actions during his presidency. Born to Japanese immigrants, Fujimori rose from obscurity to win the presidency in a surprising electoral victory against Mario Vargas Llosa. His tenure was marked by violent tactics against insurgents and a series of economic reforms that initially gained him public support but ultimately led to scandal and resignation. His legacy continues to evoke strong emotions in a divided Peru, as reflected in the tributes and criticisms that followed his death.