Alberto Fujimori's 25-Year Prison Sentence for Commanding Death Squads in Peru

Alberto Fujimori served as the President of Peru from 1990 to 2000, a period marked by significant political turmoil and allegations of corruption. His presidency was characterized by a controversial counterinsurgency campaign aimed at combating the Shining Path and other insurgent groups. However, this campaign was marred by human rights violations, including the command of death squads that were responsible for the extrajudicial killings of civilians. These actions drew widespread condemnation from both national and international human rights organizations. After his presidency, Fujimori fled to Japan amid growing corruption scandals and was later arrested in 2005 when he attempted to return to Chile. In 2009, he was convicted of corruption and human rights abuses, leading to a 25-year prison sentence. His legacy remains deeply polarizing in Peru, with some viewing him as a strong leader who brought stability, while others condemn his authoritarian methods and the corruption that plagued his administration. The implications of his presidency continue to influence Peruvian politics, highlighting the ongoing struggle against corruption in the country.