Ruptly

'My vote is for change' - Peruvian diaspora in Milan heads to polls in tense presidential runoff

"Members of Peru’s diaspora gathered at a polling station in Milan on Sunday to cast their ballots in a closely contested presidential runoff. Voters are choosing between conservative candidate Keiko Fujimori, who has campaigned on pro-business policies, stronger security measures and support for private investment, and progressive challenger Roberto Sánchez, who advocates a greater state role in the economy, constitutional reform and stronger recognition of Indigenous communities. For some of the voters, security and economic stability remain the main concerns. "We have been given so many false hopes," a voter said. "What I hope for is that we, as patriots, can have peace of mind in terms of security and the economy." Voters expressed differing views on whether to back experienced candidates or opt for fresh change. "Neither of the two candidates is someone who can improve things 100 per cent," one voter said. "Right now we have to choose the lesser evil. I believe the best option would be Keiko." “The Fujimori period caused so much damage to my country,” another voter said. “I do not want a new government of that kind.” Recent opinion polls have predicted an extremely tight race, with several surveys showing Fujimori holding only a narrow advantage over Sanchez. Analysts say turnout among Peruvians living abroad could prove important in such a closely contested election. According to Peru's electoral authorities, more than one million Peruvians are eligible to vote outside the country. Europe hosts one of the largest overseas Peruvian communities. Italy is home to an estimated 100,000 to 120,000 Peruvians, one of the largest Peruvian populations in Europe. Fujimori secured 17 percent of the vote in the first round in April, while Sanchez received 12 percent, setting up a runoff under Peru’s electoral system on June 7, which requires a second round if no candidate surpasses 50 percent of the vote."