A Peruvian congressman has proposed legislation that would delay the swearing-in of a presidential candidate who wins election by a majority in the first round of voting. The proposal, place forward by Esdras Medina of the Renovación Popular party, suggests a five-day waiting period between the official announcement of results by the National Jury of Elections (JNE) and the inauguration of the president-elect.
The bill, formally designated PL 14059, would apply specifically to the general elections scheduled for April 12, 2026, and would not alter the standard constitutional procedures for presidential transitions outside of this election cycle. According to reports, the intent is to allow for a formal swearing-in ceremony to be held before Congress.
Medina, who currently represents Arequipa in the Peruvian Congress, presented the proposal on Monday, February 23, 2026. The move comes as Peru prepares for a potentially pivotal election, and underscores the ongoing political maneuvering ahead of the vote.
Esdras Ricardo Medina Minaya was born in Arequipa on March 25, 1967, and has a background in administration. He previously served as a provincial councilor for Arequipa from 2015 to 2018, and has been a member of several political parties throughout his career, including Cambio Radical, Movimiento Regional Arequipa Cuenta Conmigo, Renacimiento Unido Nacional, and currently, Renovación Popular. He has been a member of Congress since July 27, 2021.
The proposed change to the inauguration timeline has sparked debate, with supporters arguing it would provide a more orderly transition of power. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to refine Peru’s electoral processes.
