Perus Election Chief Steps Down Amid Frustration Over Vote Count Delays

Peru’s Head of Electoral Authority Resigns Amid Frustration Over Election Day Delays

Piero Corvetto, the head of Peru’s National Office of Electoral Processes (ONPE), has resigned from his role following widespread criticism over the country’s general election earlier this month. In a social media post on Tuesday, Corvetto announced his decision to step down as head of ONPE.

Corvetto stated in a letter to the National Board of Justice that he was leaving his position in an effort to increase public confidence ahead of the anticipated second round of voting on June 7. The first round of the election, held on April 12, was marred by logistical issues that led to extended voting hours.

Election observers have acknowledged missteps with the electoral process, but there is no firm evidence of fraud. Peru’s National Jury of Elections (JNE) has stated that the voting results will be finalized no later than May 15, with the top two presidential candidates advancing to the final round.

As of now, right-wing candidate Keiko Fujimori leads with about 17 percent of the vote, and is likely to advance to the run-off. Left-wing Congressman Roberto Sanchez and Lima’s former far-right mayor Rafael Lopez Aliaga remain virtually tied, with 12 percent and 11.9 percent respectively.

The first round of voting has led to a significant decrease in public trust in government institutions, with approximately 68 percent of Peruvians expressing little to no confidence in the country’s election authorities prior to the April election. The review of contested ballots is ongoing, as election authorities attempt to resolve inconsistencies and missing details on tally sheets.

Corvetto’s resignation comes amid a tumultuous period for Peru’s electoral process, with some presidential candidates pushing unconfirmed claims of fraud and calling for the first round of voting to be nullified.

Source: Al Jazeera