LIMA — Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori is embroiled in a political storm at home over her decision to embark on an Asian tour just as Pope Leo XIV visits the South American nation, sparking sharp rebukes from lawmakers and political analysts.

According to reports from regional media, President Fujimori is scheduled to travel to China and Japan from November 15 to 21. Her itinerary includes attending the APEC summit in Shenzhen, China, holding talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and subsequently visiting Japan.

While the Peruvian Senate narrowly greenlit the overseas travel, dissenting voices broke out during the floor vote, registering five opposing votes. Critics contend that scheduling a state trip during the papal visit—running from November 11 to 17—is a diplomatic miscalculation, particularly given the massive gatherings planned, including a high-profile mass at the Las Palmas Air Force Base.

Lawmakers voiced deep concern over the timing. Senator Carlos Caballero León labeled the departure a "diplomatic blunder," while fellow legislator Mirtha Vásquez argued that administrative adjustments should have been made to avoid the overlap. Responding to the backlash, President Fujimori defended the timeline, stating that her office had explored options to reschedule but found it unfeasible.

Public discontent, however, remains unabated. Former Interior Minister Carlos Basombrío blasted the absence, noting that the president’s failure to personally welcome or bid farewell to the pontiff shows a lack of political prudence regarding the event's cultural weight.

Pope Leo XIV holds deep ties to Peru, having spent over two decades serving as a priest and later as the Bishop of Chiclayo before ascending to the papacy. His profound connection to the country has earned him immense affection among Peruvians, highlighted by the massive crowds exceeding three million that poured into Lima to greet him upon arrival.

Beyond logistical criticism, political observers suggest underlying tensions may be at play. The pontiff previously voiced strong opposition to the controversial 2017 pardon granted to former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori—the incumbent leader's late father. Observers and critics warn that the overseas trip might be interpreted by some as a calculated maneuver to dodge potential diplomatic friction with a religious leader who previously challenged her family's political legacy.

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