Keiko Fujimori (Fuerza Popular) and Roberto Sánchez (Juntos por el Perú) held a presidential debate on May 31, 2026 [1].
The event serves as the final major confrontation before the second-round runoff election. With the presidency of Peru at stake, the candidates are attempting to capture undecided voters who could determine the outcome of the vote.
The debate took place at the Centro de Convenciones de Lima in the San Borja district [2]. This meeting represents a critical juncture in the campaign, as both candidates seek to solidify their bases and expand their appeal across the country.
Fujimori entered the debate with a narrow lead in the polls. Recent data indicates she holds a three percentage point advantage over Sánchez [3]. The narrow margin suggests that a shift in public perception during the debate could significantly alter the race.
Sánchez aims to close this gap by presenting a distinct alternative to the Fuerza Popular platform. The runoff election is scheduled for June 7, 2026 [4], leaving only a few days for the candidates to implement their final strategies.
The debate focused on persuading the remaining undecided electorate to shift the poll margin. Both candidates used the platform to outline their visions for the country's governance, and economic future.
This confrontation in Lima is the only scheduled debate between the two finalists before the voters head to the polls this Sunday [1].
“The candidates are attempting to capture undecided voters who could determine the outcome of the vote.”
The tight polling margin of three percentage points indicates a highly volatile electorate where a small swing in undecided voters can flip the result. By facing off in a public forum just days before the June 7 runoff, the candidates are betting that a strong televised performance can overcome existing party loyalties and secure a plurality of the vote.
