Mario Vargas Llosa joins political party in Peru advocating for economic freedom

Renowned Peruvian-Spanish writer, Mario Vargas Llosa, has returned to politics in Peru, 33 years after losing the presidential elections to Alberto Fujimori.

Vargas Llosa has joined Libertad Popular, a recently registered political party emphasizing economic freedom as its core principle.

Led by Rafael Belaúnde Llosa, former Minister of Energy and Mines during the government of Martín Vizcarra and grandson of former Peruvian President Fernando Belaúnde Terry, Libertad Popular believes in an economic system built on freedom, with private initiative as the primary driver of wealth creation and sustainable employment.

Describing it as a “capitalist revolution,” Rafael Belaúnde Llosa envisions a state that serves the expansion of the market in favor of its citizens rather than seeking to replace it.

He emphasizes the need for private investment to propel Peru’s growth to 6% to 7%, as growth below these levels takes a long time to translate into tangible benefits for the population.

Libertad Popular also advocates for an efficient and modern state that ensures access to education, healthcare, justice, public order, housing, and clean water, intervening only when necessary and in a subsidiary manner.

Vargas Llosa’s return to politics comes three decades after his previous bid for the presidency in 1990, where he led the Democratic Front coalition.

The party included Acción Popular, the party of Fernando Belaúnde Terry, who is now welcoming Vargas Llosa into Libertad Popular.

Vargas Llosa’s decision to join the party reflects his ongoing engagement in Peruvian politics and his commitment to advocating for economic freedom and a state that effectively serves its citizens.

Related coverage: Peruvian Congress approves law allowing entry of US troops · Peru's annual inflation projected to decrease to 6.7% in June, says Finance Minister · Peru implements enhanced territorial control to address irregular migration · Peru takes over chairmanship of Pacific Alliance after tensions with Mexico

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