César Acuña announces retirement from Peruvian politics

César Acuña, the founder and leader of the Alianza para el Progreso (APP) party, has announced his retirement from political life following his participation in the 2026 general elections. Acuña stated he will dedicate himself full-time to the education and training of students at the Universidad César Vallejo (UCV), the institution he founded.

During an event at one of the university campuses, Acuña remarked, “I give you good news: ‘Bye, politics.’ Dedicated full-time to training my youth.” He expressed a desire to use his 25 years of political experience to encourage new generations to enter public service without fear, though he clarified he will no longer hold office himself.

Acuña’s political career included serving as a congressman (2000–2001), Mayor of Trujillo (2007–2014), and Regional Governor of La Libertad (2015–2018). He most recently resigned from his second term as regional governor in October 2025 to run in the 2026 presidential elections.