Peruvian gubernatorial candidate Susy Aponte assassinated in Caraz market

Susy Aponte Polo de Tello, a journalist and regional governor candidate for Áncash under the movement Socios por Áncash, was shot dead in a market in Caraz, Huaylas province, on September 20, 2026. The attack occurred during her routine activities; no group has claimed responsibility and the motive remains unclear. This killing highlights escalating political violence against candidates in Peru's subnational elections, a pattern that threatens democratic processes.