Peru's president, Mr. Alberto Fujimori, was sworn in to begin his third term Friday. It was a bittersweet occasion for the president. The festivities were marred by massive protests against an election tainted by charges of fraud. Mr. Fujimori, a combative man who never backs down from a challenge, has made gestures toward the opposition, but he has shown little inclination to embrace reforms that would soften his authoritarian rule and move Peru toward genuine democracy.
Calling Mr. Fujimori's government "illegitimate," the opposition organized the biggest street demonstration in 25 years. The marches began on Wednesday and were scheduled to peak Friday at the president's inauguration. The protests stem from the May 28 runoff election that was boycotted by opposition leader Alejandro Toledo. Mr. Toledo refused to participate in the vote, claiming that it was rigged. The runoff was held as scheduled, and Mr. Fujimori won. Peru has been sharply divided ever since.
The opposition is not alone in harboring doubts about the election. International monitors criticized the electoral process, citing a strong media bias, vote-counting irregularities and the use of government funds in Mr. Fujimori's election campaign.