Manuel Vera Paredes of Fuerza Arequipeña leads the Arequipa provincial mayoral race with roughly 19.3% of votes at over 99% of ONPE tallies processed following the October 4, 2026 election. In a crowded field of 17 lists, this margin places him ahead of Alfredo Benavente Godoy and others, while his movement also secured a projected council majority. Pre-election surveys had shown him competitive or ahead amid voter focus on local issues such as transport, water services, and formalization of informal settlements. Traders reflect this outcome in elevated odds for Vera Paredes, though final proclamation and any narrow recount margins remain pending. Ongoing judicial matters tied to prior municipal roles represent the main structural factor that could still affect assumption of office on January 1, 2027.