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Peru Election Chaos: Polling Stations Open Late
12 Apr
Summary
- Voting started late in Lima due to transport issues.
- ONPE stated only 0.72% of polling stations were affected.
- The voting schedule will not be extended past 5:00 PM.
Peru faced a complex election day on Sunday, April 12, 2026, marked by delays and widespread voter frustration, especially in Lima. The primary cause of the disruption was the late installation of polling stations, with some unable to open at their scheduled 7:00 AM start time. This led to long lines and confusion for early voters in various Lima districts.
Despite the issues in the capital, the National Office of Electoral Processes (ONPE) reported that affected locations represented only 0.72% of the nation's 10,336 polling places. ONPE attributed the delays to a transportation company's failure to deliver electoral materials on time, primarily impacting Lima Sur. The agency has initiated a contingency plan to distribute remaining materials and assured that voting was proceeding without setbacks in other regions.
Crucially, ONPE has ruled out extending the voting hours beyond the established 5:00 PM cutoff, even for locations that opened late. This decision stands as a critical point for voters still waiting to cast their ballots. While ONPE emphasizes the nationwide process is moving forward, significant logistical strain and tension persist in Lima as the vote count approaches.
