Jessica Vargas, the current mayor of Barranco, Peru, is stepping down from her position to run for a council seat. This move follows questions regarding transparency in her administration and delays in vacancy proceedings. Vargas is term-limited and legally unable to seek re-election as mayor. She, like her political ally Rafael López Aliaga, aims to remain involved in the Barranco municipality through a different role. By running for first council member (teniente alcaldesa), Vargas hopes to continue influencing local governance. Her departure from the mayor’s office is temporary, pending the outcome of the election.