Lima: Peru's newly elected President Keiko Sofia Fujimori Higuchi formally assumed office by taking her oath before a crucifix and the Holy Bible, reaffirming the country's long standing constitutional traditions and its historic relationship with the Catholic faith. The ceremony marked the beginning of her five year presidential term from 2026 to 2031 and drew attention to the religious symbolism that has long been part of important state occasions in Peru.
Standing before the crucifix and the Holy Bible, Fujimori pledged to faithfully carry out the responsibilities entrusted to her as President of the Republic. In her oath, she declared that she would serve the nation with loyalty, calling upon God, her homeland and the Holy Gospels as witnesses to her promise. The solemn ceremony reflected the importance of faith in Peru's public life and highlighted the country's historical ties with Christianity.
As part of the oath, the new president also acknowledged the important role played by the Catholic Church in the cultural and moral formation of the Peruvian people. This statement forms part of Peru's constitutional and legal tradition and reflects the historical relationship that has existed between the nation and the Catholic Church for generations. The inclusion of these words during the ceremony once again underscored the place of religious heritage in the country's public institutions.
Fujimori further promised to uphold Peru's Constitution and laws and to ensure that they are implemented fairly and faithfully during her administration. She also pledged to protect the physical and moral wellbeing of the people, especially those who have historically lived on the margins of society. Her commitment included working for justice, equal opportunities and the welfare of vulnerable communities across the country.
Delivering her first address to the nation after taking office, President Fujimori said she accepted the responsibility of leading Peru with humility, confidence and a deep sense of duty. She told the people that she was beginning her presidency with full trust in the future of the nation and with a sincere desire to serve every citizen. She also expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to lead the country at this important moment in its history.
The new president said she was placing all the work of her administration into God's hands, asking for wisdom and guidance as she begins her term in office. Her remarks reflected the personal faith that has been a visible part of her public life for many years. Throughout her political career, Fujimori has often spoken about the importance of Christian values and has said that faith continues to guide her decisions and public service.
Political observers noted that the oath ceremony carried both constitutional and symbolic significance. While it marked the peaceful transfer of power to a new administration, it also reflected the enduring influence of religious traditions within Peru's civic life. The ceremony served as a reminder of the country's historical identity while also signalling the beginning of a new chapter under Fujimori's leadership.
As Peru enters a new presidential term, many citizens will be watching closely to see how the promises made during the oath are translated into government policies and action. Expectations remain high for efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold the rule of law and improve the lives of ordinary Peruvians, particularly those facing social and economic challenges.
With her oath taken before the crucifix and the Holy Bible and her pledge to govern with faith, justice and dedication, President Keiko Sofia Fujimori Higuchi has begun her presidency by presenting a vision that combines constitutional responsibility with personal conviction. Her administration now faces the task of turning those commitments into meaningful progress for the people of Peru over the next five years.