Peru: Fujimori apologizes after pardon

By Susana Noguera

BOGOTA, Colombia (AA) - Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori thanked that country’s current leader on Tuesday for a pardon and apologized for “disappointing” some of his fellow Peruvians.

“I am aware some of the results during my administration were well received,” Fujimori said in a video message posted on his Facebook account that was delivered from a hospital bed where he is in declining health. “But I admit that on the other hand I´ve disappointed other compatriots. To those I am sorry from the bottom of my heart.”

The former leader of the Popular Force party appeared gracious for move from Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, who avoided impeachment last week on corruption charges.

“Thank you President Kuczynski for this kind gesture that has comforted me. From this place, I join the expectations from those who fight for the greatness of the country. Because for all Peruvians Peru is first.”

Fujimori is a controversial figure who ruled from 2000 - 2009. He is revered by some who admire him for beating down a guerrilla movement but derided by those who point to his conviction and 25-year sentence for human rights abuses and corruption.

He was found guilty for perpetrating massacres in two neighborhoods in Lima, as well as kidnapping journalist Gustavo Gorriti and businessman Samuel Dyer Ampudia.

Fujimori admitted to delivering $15 million from the state to former advisor Vladimiro Montesinos.

He was also convicted for spying on congressman and blackmail.

His daughter Kenji, leads the Fuerza Popular party and was its presidential candidate in 2011 and who narrowly lost in the last election in 2016.

Kuczynski granted pardon to the polemic leader and creator of “fujimorism” -- considered opposition to his government.

Hundreds of Peruvians protested the decision in Lima on Monday. Some tried to force their way into the government’s palace but were arrested by police.