Opinions on the Peruvian Executive: A Study on Presidential Transitions and Approval

Abstract

This paper explores the various presidential transitions in Peru, their relationship with Congress and corruption, and the impact of Alberto Fujimori’s decade-long presidency. I build upon existing literature investigating Peruvian opinion and draw from nationally conducted Peruvian polls to investigate individual presidents' role in the public’s perceptions of corruption, support for democracy, tolerance of the president closing Congress, and confidence in elections, Congress, and the president. To supplement these public opinion surveys, I conducted qualitative interviews with Peruvians in the U.S. and Peru, providing a deeper look at what has impacted their opinion towards the government. I analyze how the rapid presidential turnover after 2016 influences public opinion and why the public looks more favorably upon the president than Congress. Since 2016, Peru has had six presidents, three of whom Congress impeached. Almost all Peruvian presidents have been involved in corrupt practices, yet the public views the president as more favorable than Congress. I find that Fujimori’s strong-handed presidency, differences in accountability of Congress and the president to the public, and heightened divisions between the two branches offer an explanation for public opinion. This study is important for exploring the ongoing presidential transitions and whether Peru hopes to regain governmental stability in the future.