Voting Ends in Peru Elections Following Disrupted Election Day

(MENAFN) Voting has officially concluded in Peru’s presidential and parliamentary elections, ending a tense election day marked by significant organizational delays and extended polling hours, according to reports.

Polling stations closed at 6 p.m. local time (2300 GMT), one hour later than initially planned after election authorities approved an extension to accommodate voters affected by long waiting times.

The decision came after widespread delays were reported across the country, with many polling centers—particularly in the capital, Lima—opening hours late due to missing electoral materials and a shortage of volunteer poll workers.

Millions of citizens took part in the nationwide vote to elect a new president and members of a newly structured bicameral legislature. The race featured a record 35 presidential candidates, resulting in a highly fragmented political landscape with no clear frontrunner.

Although polling stations were scheduled to open at 7 a.m., some locations experienced delays of up to three hours, prompting frustration among voters and raising concerns about possible irregularities, according to reports.

In response, electoral authorities extended voting hours for the approximately 27 million eligible voters to ensure broader participation. While the extension allowed more citizens to cast ballots, officials acknowledged that some people were still unable to vote before polls closed. Those affected, however, were reportedly exempted from fines that are normally imposed for failing to participate in elections.

MENAFN13042026000045017640ID1110974015