Rafael López Aliaga’s Lima mayoral bid labelled a legal fraud

Rafael López Aliaga, current mayor of Lima, is planning to run for the position of lieutenant mayor by using a proxy candidate, a move that contravenes Peru’s anti‑reelection law. Former congressman and Surco mayor Carlos Bruce, who is also contesting the Lima mayoralty, described the strategy as “a fraud to the law,” arguing it would allow López Aliaga to circumvent the prohibition on municipal re‑election.

A recent CIT Perú poll shows independent candidate Francis Allison leading the mayoral race with 15.8% support, followed by Bruce at 13.2%, Susel Paredes at 10.4% and former security minister Daniel Urresti at 8.8%. The poll notes a high level of voter indecision, with over 44% either undecided or unwilling to back any listed candidate.

Separately, former presidential contender Carlos Espá defended López Aliaga’s decision not to be sworn in as a senator, insisting the move is legally permissible and should be judged by voters. The ongoing debate highlights broader concerns about the use of legal loopholes in Peru’s electoral system ahead of the October 2026 municipal elections.