Radio return for Peru's Fujimori

Fujimori aims to "get closer" to the people

Former Peruvian President Alberto Fujimori is aiming for a political comeback with the launch of his own radio show all the way from Japan.

Called The Chino's Hour - after Mr Fujimori's nickname - the 60-minute programme is being broadcast on a small commercial station in the capital Lima.

The disgraced leader fled to Japan three years ago after a corruption scandal involving his spy chief brought down his government.

His show promises to bring the former leader's own brand of political commentary to the airwaves.

I thought it was someone playing a joke Ricardo Palma, Radio Miraflores

The show - which went out on Saturday - is being funded by friends of the former president who have rented the time from the small Radio Miraflores station.

Head of the station Ricardo Palma told Reuters news agency: "Fujimori called me up at 3am when I was asleep and I thought it was someone playing a joke.

"He challenged me to give him air time."

'Get closer'

The show will be recorded in Tokyo and the hour-long broadcast will cost his supporters $500 to $600 each week.

"Fujimori's aim is to get closer and closer to the people," said his spokesman Carlos Raffo.

Mr Raffo will host the show, which will include political commentaries by Mr Fujimori, speaking about current events and responding to his critics.

The ex-president, who governed for a decade, recorded the first of his radio messages. It is not clear whether he will always give taped contributions or call in live.

The former president is wanted in Peru on an array of charges, including corruption and murder. Mr Fujimori says the charges are politically motivated and lack any evidence to prove the accusations.

Strong leader?

Last month a poll showed Mr Fujimori's popularity was on the rise, despite the fact that two-thirds of people in Peru saw him as corrupt.

The survey found 31% of those polled supported him, while 12% backed the current President, Alejandro Toledo.

The BBC's Hannah Hennessy in Lima says that, despite the corruption allegations, many in Peru remember Mr Fujimori as a strong leader who helped the country overcome terrorism and economic unrest.

Mr Fujimori said he plans to expand the radio show to other cities and towns across Peru in the future.

He has already been using his From Tokyo web site for self promotion and to lash out at his critics.

He has also launched a new political party in preparation for a presidential bid in 2006, despite being legally banned from running until 2011.