Peru's National Jury of Elections (JNE) confirmed the results of the first round of voting on Sunday, with right-wing candidate Keiko Fujimori winning 17% of the vote and left-wing Congress member Roberto Sanchez securing 12%, setting up a presidential runoff.

The electoral body acknowledged significant logistical issues and delays in vote counting during the first round. JNE President Roberto Burneo stated that lessons have been learned and oversight will be strengthened for the second round.

Problems on election day, April 12, led to extended voting hours in some areas, highlighting widespread discontent and mistrust in the political system. Several candidates alleged fraud, though observers say there is no evidence.

Far-right candidate Rafael Lopez Aliaga, who finished third with 11.9%, called for the annulment of the first round, claiming electoral fraud. He stated on social media that he would not accept the results.

The controversy underscores Peru's ongoing political crisis, with nine different presidents in the last decade due to frequent impeachment efforts by Congress. The public prosecutor's office also announced financial crime charges against Sanchez shortly after he advanced to the runoff.

Source: www.aljazeera.com