Peru’s former leader, Alberto Fujimori, has been released from prison after serving 16 years of a 25-year sentence for human rights abuses during his 1990s rule.
Despite an international human rights court’s criticism, Peru’s highest court ruled in favor of an appeal to restore a 2017 pardon on humanitarian grounds, previously blocked by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights.
Fujimori, 85, left the prison wearing a breathing tube and a mask, greeted by supporters pushing against his car as he headed to his daughter Keiko’s home. Keiko expressed gratitude, stating, “Today we finally have our father home. There is no hatred or resentment in my heart, but gratitude.”
Supporters argue that Fujimori saved Peru from terrorism and economic collapse, while critics accuse him of abusing democracy and committing atrocities in the fight against guerrillas. Notably, he was convicted in 2009 for ordering the massacre of 25 people during the battle against the Shining Path.
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The release comes amid plummeting approval for the incumbent, President Dina Boluarte’s government, facing its lowest levels since her predecessor’s ousting.
Boluarte is also grappling with a constitutional complaint for deaths during anti-government protests post-assumption of office.