Anybody have an opinion on this guy. When he was in power I wasn't really paying attention to what's going on in politics around the world. Some say that he saved Peru from Economic disaster. Some say he ordered Montesinos to murder a bunch of people. Anyways, he is going to die in prison cause he is old as, and they just sentenced him to 25 years. Unless of course Keiko wins the election and can give Daddy a presidential pardon. Comments from older people that lived in Peru in the 90's, and thus know what's up from a first hand perspective, would be especially appreciated.
My first visit to Peru was in '93. Everything, everywhere looked rundown, worn out and tired...including the people. I continued to make numerous trips after that and lived in Iquitos for a year, 97-98. I have made several trips since then, the last being the past summer. Through the early 90's I saw a considerable improvement in the standard of living and infrastucture around the iquitos area. Its hard to measure progress there because they had/have so little that anything helps improve their lot. I also heard a lot of scarey storeys about the ruthless pursuit of the Sendaro Luminoso. It seemed that Fuji had a take no prisoners attitude coupled with a shoot first, ask questions later philosophy. As usual, poor people are caught in the middle of such feuds. Actually I think Montesenos might have had a pretty big role in some of the more bloodthirsty approach. I think it might be fair to compare Montesinos to Bush's Chenney...I'm not saying that Fuji was like bush,but montesinos and chenny had a lot in common. During one of my stays there I happened to meet a handsome, well-groomed and educated young man who was a member of the team that got Guzman. He didn't look much more than 24-25 years old but I sure as hell wouldn't want to have pissed him off. All things considered I believe Fuji did improve the lives of the Peruvian people. He was a bright and decisive man who had a clear vision of his goals. He was/is also a human being and had his flaws and weaknesses. Time will tell more about his contributions to the Peruvian People. My two youngest sons are adopted from around Iquitos and I have long-standing ties with folks there. At some point the boys and I will move back"home" for a while. Incredible place!
