Rafael López Aliaga responded after Luis Rubio withdrew his candidacy for mayor of Lima under the Renovación Popular party. López Aliaga, the former mayor of the capital, said Rubio stepped aside for deeply personal reasons.
Minutes after the resignation became known, López Aliaga posted on social media that the list would continue. In a statement, he said he felt profound sadness at seeing Rubio's decision published, and that speculating about the motives behind such an important decision was not only absurd but also disgraceful. He said he was not authorized to give details, but had to say that Rubio tried. He said Rubio decided to fight for Lima, but very personal circumstances prevented him from continuing. He added he had nothing more to say, only eternal gratitude for Rubio's commitment and courage.
López Aliaga Set to Lead the List
With Rubio's exit, the Renovación Popular list would now be headed by López Aliaga. He had previously turned down a seat in the Senate, then announced his intention to run for deputy mayor on the list led by Rubio.
Electoral Lawyer Weighs In
Silvia Guevara, a lawyer specializing in electoral law, told Canal N that Rubio's resignation was filed within the established deadline. She said this kind of situation has become common since immediate reelection of subnational authorities was constitutionally banned.
Guevara said this would reveal the intent of a disguised reelection bid. She said that if the list wins the election, all the candidates for council seats would remain in place, and López Aliaga would be sworn in as mayor.
