A profile of Veronika Mendoza.
The election of Veronika Mendoza as presidential candidate for the Frente Amplio ahead of Peru's April elections, gives the left a credible representative in a race otherwise dominated by right-wing candidates. Mendoza is now well-placed to receive endorsement from other sectors of the left on condition that they gain priority positions on a parliamentary slate. Unlike in many other Latin American countries, the left has languished on the sidelines in Peruvian politics since the 1980s.
If it can maintain a united front, the left looks likely to increase its presence in the next Congress.
Mendoza represents a far more pragmatic left than that of the former generation of leaders.
The left will continue to push for greater social responsibility on the part of extractive industries.
