Peru’s New Constitution Dream: A Radical Shift on the Horizon

Roberto Sanchez, a 57‑year‑old congressman from the Together for Peru party, has taken the political stage by promising a complete rewrite of the country’s constitution. His campaign is built on the idea that the 1990s charter, drafted under former President Alberto Fujimori—father of the current second‑round opponent Keiko Fujimori—does not reflect Peru’s diverse peoples. Sanchez argues that the constitution has ignored rural, Andean and Amazonian communities, leaving them behind while natural resources enrich a few. He wants to convene a constituent assembly and put the new charter to a national referendum, calling for “justice” rather than expropriation. His plan includes higher taxes on mining profits, a wealth tax for the richest, and stronger state control over natural resources. The aim is to give communities that host mining operations a fair share of the wealth they generate.Sanchez’s platform also touches on social issues: he supports abortion only in cases of rape or when the mother’s life is at risk, and opposes discrimination on any basis. He wants tougher penalties for corruption, lifetime bans from public office for repeat offenders, and a stronger partnership between the armed forces and police to tackle organized crime. The former foreign trade minister’s ties with ex‑President Pedro Castillo—who was ousted in 2022 and is now jailed on charges of rebellion—have alarmed investors. Castillo’s supporters see Sanchez as a continuation of his policies, while the mining industry worries about potential changes to contracts and taxes. Despite this, Sanchez insists he will not hand power back to Castillo if elected but will work for his release and justice for those harmed during protests. With a conservative majority in both chambers of Congress, Sanchez’s ambitious agenda faces an uphill battle if he wins the June 7 runoff against Keiko Fujimori, who currently leads with 17. 18% of the vote compared to Sanchez’s 12. 03%. Polls suggest a tight race, and the outcome will shape Peru’s future political and economic direction.