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The Association of Internal Transport Operators of Paraguay is pressuring the Luque Municipal Board to approve a bus fare increase to 3,400 guaranis, less than 20 days before the internal elections. The request comes after a unilateral increase earlier this year, which led to an administrative proceeding that remains unresolved.
luqueThe government of Javier Milei approved the technical pre-qualification of two international consortia to operate the Paraná and Paraguay rivers waterway, even after the Prosecution Office for Administrative Investigations pointed out "serious and evident irregularities" in the process.
javier-mileiargentinaDeputy prosecutor Soledad Machuca was removed from the Economic Crimes and Anti-Corruption Unit (UDEA) and the Money Laundering area in a restructuring ordered by Attorney General Emiliano Rolón. She leaves a trail of sensitive cases stalled or controversially shelved, prompting calls for an audit and criticism from lawyers and politicians.
soledad-machucaudeaemiliano-rolonhernan-rivasPresident Santiago Peña now attempts to deny ties with Juan Roberto “Jimmy” Villaverde, identified as an operator of a dirty campaign that spent over half a million dollars on digital platforms. However, a 2023 interview and official documents show that Peña praised him and appointed him to the government's digital communications.
jimmy-villaverdesantiago-penamburuvicha-rogaPresident Santiago Peña is accused of denying ties to a digital communicator who received an official credential, while allegations of a smear campaign against government critics grow. The head of Mitic is pressured to resign for allegedly concealing data, and Conmebol president Alejandro Domínguez faces corruption accusations from the United States.
santiago-penamiticconmebolThe Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (Mitic) issued an alert about fraudulent text messages promising a fake 'Bono Mujer' of G. 600,000, aiming to steal victims' personal and financial data.
phishingmiticHuman Rights Watch calls on Salvadoran authorities to guarantee a swift, open, and fair trial for Ruth López, a lawyer and human rights defender detained since May 2025 on charges of illicit enrichment. The organization warns of a pattern of indefinite pretrial detention against government critics.
el-salvadorhuman-rights-watchruth-lopeznayib-bukeleOpposition lawmakers in Paraguay criticize Comptroller General Camilo Benítez, claiming he uses an alleged gap in Law 5189/14 to avoid sanctioning agencies that do not disclose employee salaries, such as binational entities. They point to selectivity in audits and complicity with the Cartes/Peña government.
camilo-benitezParaguay's Public Ministry has charged suspended peace judge Carmen Analía Cibils and former judge Nathalia Garcete in two new cases related to the scheme known as the 'promissory note mafia'. The accusations include malfeasance, document forgery, and false notifications, expanding the scope of the investigation that was already in the oral trial phase.
analia-cibilsnathalia-garcetePresident Santiago Peña and Vice President Pedro Alliana have asked Horacio Cartes to consider a new candidacy for the presidency of the Colorado Party in 2028, according to the general agent of the ANR, Eduardo González Báez. The request was made during a meeting of the Honor Colorado Command at the former president's residence.
horacio-cartessantiago-penapedro-allianahonor-coloradoanrRocío Ojeda, former director of the Animal Protection Commission of the National Congress, denounces that she was dismissed without formal justification and without access to the administrative process, despite having job stability and suffering from multiple sclerosis. She says she continues to work her hours while awaiting the end of her notice period on May 30, and that the President of Congress, Basilio Bachi Núñez, said he was unaware of the case.
rocio-ojedaVilla Hayes, capital of the Presidente Hayes department, will have five aspirants to the mayoralty in the Colorado Party primaries. The cartismo faction is divided between current mayor Luis López, backed by Congress President Basilio “Bachi” Núñez, and councilwoman Karina Zárate, supported by the Roussillón and Zárate groups. Two other Colorado candidates and an opposition alliance complete the scenario.
villa-hayeshector-agueroState Attorney General Emiliano Rolón removed Deputy Attorney María Soledad Machuca from the Specialized Unit for Economic Crimes and Anti-Corruption and the Money Laundering Unit, following questions about alleged shelving of emblematic cases. Nancy Salomón takes over the position.
emiliano-rolonsoledad-machucanancy-salomonThe city of Hohenau held a folkloric peña over the weekend to celebrate the 215th anniversary of Paraguayan Independence, combining music, dance, and a tribute to mothers. The event featured performances by artist Francisco Russo, the band La Bandita de Misiones, and local groups, bringing families together for a night of strong patriotic sentiment.
hohenaufrancisco-russola-bandita-de-misionesPeace Judge of La Encarnación, Analía Cibils, and former Peace Judge of La Catedral, Nathalia Garcete, have been charged again by the Paraguayan Public Prosecutor's Office for alleged malfeasance and use of false documents, as part of the scheme known as the 'Promissory Note Mafia'. The accusations also include actuaries, court clerks, and representatives of credit companies.
Liberal deputy Freddy Franco defended his bill establishing the 'National Day of Vori Vori' and harshly criticized Senator Dionisio Amarilla, accusing him of being two-faced due to his closeness to the Colorado government. Franco suggested the debate over the typical dish was used to divert attention from the scandal involving former Senator Hernán Rivas's fake diplomas.
freddy-francodionisio-amarillavori-voritova-mokoiPresidential pre-candidate Arnoldo Wiens, from the Colorado Añetete movement, attacked sectors of cartismo during a rally in Villarrica, accusing them of remaining "bolted to power" and using public office for personal gain. He also questioned the government's economic management and recalled the narrative of the "true colorados," amid the internal dispute of the ANR.
arnoldo-wienscolorado-anetetecartismovillarricaThe Paraguayan Senate on Wednesday (19) addresses 19 items, including the promotion request of National Police Commander César Roberto Silguero Lobos and the designation of concurrent ambassadors to various countries. Senator Celeste Amarilla harshly criticized a bill establishing the 'National Vori Vori Day,' calling it 'stupid' amid the social crisis.
cesar-silgueroceleste-amarillaParaguay's Minister of Interior, Enrique Riera, denied rumors that he would return to the Senate, stating that President Santiago Peña asked him to remain in office. Riera also commented on the upcoming internal municipal elections and the ministry's stance of party neutrality.
enrique-rierasantiago-penahonor-coloradoThe General Comptroller's Office of the Republic (CGR) of Paraguay has initiated an administrative proceeding against former senator Javier “Chaqueñito” Vera for failing to submit his sworn declaration of assets and income after leaving office. The fine may reach 100% of the salary he received.
javier-veraThe Bolivian government stated this Monday (18) that it identified alleged armed groups among the demonstrators marching toward La Paz to demand the resignation of President Rodrigo Paz. Presidential spokesperson José Luis Gálvez pointed to a former Ministry of Defense employee as the leader of a radical faction that displayed weapons in a video on social media.
boliviaevo-moralesrodrigo-pazponchos-rojosRocío Ojeda, former director of the Animal Care and Protection Commission of the National Congress of Paraguay, reported being dismissed on April 17 without an administrative process or formal explanation, despite suffering from multiple sclerosis. She alleges that her position was assigned to a political operator linked to Senator Rocío Abed, raising suspicions of partisan criteria in legislative administration.
The chief of staff of the ANR, Eduardo González, stated that Senator Lilian Samaniego requested the postponement of the Colorado Party's internal elections, but she denies the accusation and demands an audit of the voting machines. The TEP guarantees that the audit will be carried out without altering the calendar.
anrteplilian-samaniegoThe president of the Paraguayan Congress, Basilio "Bachi" Núñez, defended the reliability of electronic voting machines and opened the door for an audit of academic degrees and employee bonuses, amid criticism from the opposition.
bachi-nunezParaguay's Director of Meteorology and Hydrology, Eduardo Mingo, confirmed the arrival of the El Niño phenomenon in June, with forecasts of excessive rainfall, and denied sensationalist terms such as 'El Niño Godzilla'. The government has formed a technical committee with the National Emergency Secretariat, Ministry of Defense, and Ministry of Agriculture to coordinate mitigation actions.
el-ninoeduardo-mingoThe Paraguayan government announced a restructuring of the female prison system, turning the Emboscada Penitentiary Complex into the country's only prison exclusively for women. The measure includes the definitive closure of the Juana María de Lara Penitentiary Center in Ciudad del Este and the elimination of mixed units in five cities.
emboscadarodrigo-nicoraWith the transfer of 361 female inmates to the COMPLE in Emboscada, the Paraguayan government eliminates mixed units and closes the women's prison in Ciudad del Este, complying with the constitutional separation of pretrial and convicted inmates.
emboscadaPolice and the Public Prosecutor's Office carried out an operation in Santa Rita, Alto Paraná, seizing cell phones, computers and documents in an investigation into child sexual abuse.
santa-ritaalto-paranaParaguay's Comptroller General's Office has initiated a summary proceeding against former Senator Javier 'Chaqueñito' Vera for failing to submit his sworn asset declaration within the legal 15-business-day deadline after leaving office. Vera claims forgetfulness and says he is organizing the documentation, while the Comptroller's Office warns that the fine could reach 100% of his salary, depending on the days of delay.
A 26-year-old woman suffocated her 7-year-old son and hanged herself in a tenement in the Santa Luísa neighborhood of Lambaré. In a letter on Instagram, she stated that the report of sexual abuse against the child's biological father, filed in 2024, was never thoroughly investigated. The Public Prosecutor's Office reported that medical exams ruled out physical violence, but the director of Forensic Medicine, Pablo Lemir, highlighted that not all sexual abuse leaves physical marks.
lambareParaguay's Ministry of Justice concluded this Sunday the transfer of 361 women deprived of liberty from six penitentiaries to the Penitentiary Complex for Women Deprived of Liberty (COMPLE) in Emboscada. The operation, named Umbral 2.5, was carried out jointly with the National Police and the Armed Forces, with no incidents reported.
comple-emboscadaParaguay's Ministry of Justice executed operation "Umbral 2.5", transferring about 225 women from six prisons to the new Women's Penitentiary Complex in Emboscada, Cordillera department. The action aims to centralize the female prison population and improve detention conditions.
emboscadaThe president of the Authentic Radical Liberal Party (PLRA), Hugo Fleitas, defended maintaining alliances with all opposition forces, especially with the Yo Creo Party, aiming for the 2028 elections. The statement comes amid internal debates over the composition of the opposition ticket and rejection of possible vetoes against figures such as Miguel Prieto.
plrayo-creohugo-fleitasThe department of Ñeembucú, a stronghold of Vice President Pedro Alliana, remains immune to information requests, with the government bench and Deputy Fabiana Souto, Alliana's wife, systematically rejecting the requests. Opposition member Diosnel Aguilera denounces the existence of a 'chain of command' to block transparency.
neembucuallianaProsecutor Amelia Bernal detailed the failures in the investigation of a sexual abuse complaint that preceded the filicide followed by suicide in Lambaré. The victim's mother displayed contradictory behavior, tried to throw herself in front of a vehicle with her son, and threatened to jump from a roof, but the boy was rescued and handed over to an aunt. Medical exams ruled out physical and sexual violence, and the child did not attend psychological interviews, preventing the indictment of any suspect.
lambareamelia-bernalThe phenomenon of 'kodokushi' — people who die in complete isolation — now accounts for about 5% of registered deaths in Japan. Official 2025 data shows 76,941 cases, an increase of 921 from the previous year. The government has created a specific ministry and approved a law to address the social crisis.
japansocial-isolationDocuments obtained show that the Presidency of the Republic of Paraguay issued an official credential to Juan Roberto “Jimmy” Villaverde, identified as responsible for the Sucia Política page and a network of pro-government websites, in July 2025. The revelation contradicts the version of President Santiago Peña and Mitic authorities, who denied any formal link with Villaverde.
juan-roberto-villaverdesucia-politicacredentialguillermo-granceThe Paraguayan government vehemently condemned the drone attack on the Barakah nuclear plant in the United Arab Emirates, which occurred on May 17, 2026. The incident, which caused a controlled fire outside the facility's inner perimeter, takes place amid escalating tensions between Iran and Gulf countries.
barakahiraThe Laguna Pato community, in the Presidente Hayes Department of the Paraguayan Chaco, has again protested against the lack of state action. Leader Nanencio Amarilla traveled to Asunción to demand concrete measures from the Paraguayan Institute of Indigenous Affairs (Indi) after six years of unfulfilled promises.
laguna-patoindichacopresidente-hayesThe Paraguayan government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, strongly condemned the drone attack on the Barakah nuclear plant in the United Arab Emirates, which occurred on Sunday (17). The incident, which hit an electrical generator and caused a controlled fire, is part of the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, with Iran carrying out retaliatory attacks against Gulf countries.
iraPresident Santiago Peña called for judicial cases involving legislators to be treated with the same criteria, regardless of party, while commenting on the situations of former senators Erico Galeano and Hernán Rivas. He also supported the work of ANEAES in reviewing university degrees.
santiago-penaerico-galeanohernan-rivasA farewell letter found after the death of a mother and her 7-year-old son in Lambaré exposes allegations of sexual abuse and systematic mistreatment of the minor, allegedly committed by the biological father, and points to failures in the authorities' response.
lambareMónica Idalia González Piazzoli, 26, and her 7-year-old son were found dead in a rented room in the Santa Luísa neighborhood of Lambaré. Police are investigating the hypothesis of filicide followed by suicide. A letter attributed to the woman, also published on her WhatsApp status, alleges that her ex-partner and the boy's biological father sexually abused and mistreated the child. The allegations have not been verified by authorities, and the prosecutor's office is investigating their veracity.
lambareA photograph of former goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert alongside Cartist candidate Hugo Farías has sparked speculation about a possible withdrawal of Chilavert's candidacy for mayor of Luque. Chilavert denies leaving the electoral race, but the episode has reignited criticism of his role in the opposition.
jose-luis-chilaverthugo-fariasluquesomos-luqueA woman killed her own son and took her own life in Lambaré, Paraguay. Family members claim the boy's father had sexually abused the child when he was 3 years old and that the case had already been reported to the authorities.
lambareWith a fictive sanction date of May 21, the Chamber of Deputies must vote on a bill aimed at curbing the so-called 'Promissory Note Mafia,' a scheme that executes multiple collections with the same document. The proposal, drafted jointly with the Supreme Court, includes the custody of original titles in the courts and automatic return to the debtor after payment.
The Japanese government offers scholarships for undergraduate and graduate studies to Paraguayans, covering housing, academic fees, and airfare. Applications are open until May 29.
Dissident Colorado deputy Roberto González (ANR-Añeteté) accused fellow Cartists, their satellites, and liberals functional to HC of preventing interventions in municipalities with mayors suspected of corruption, degrading the image of the National Congress. He cited the case of former senator Hernán Rivas, who reached the presidency of the Jurado de Enjuiciamiento de Magistrados with a fake degree, and other mayors who have been prosecuted or convicted.
roberto-gonzalezhernan-rivasThe Paraguayan Ministry of Justice completed Operation Umbral 2.5, transferring 361 women from six mixed prisons to the Emboscada Women's Penitentiary Complex, which now becomes the country's main female prison unit. The measure aims to separate men and women, reduce overcrowding, and improve detention conditions.
El Salvador and Guatemala have joined eight Latin American countries, including Paraguay, in a joint declaration supporting the government of Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz amid protests and roadblocks that have lasted 11 days. The group rejects destabilizing actions and calls for dialogue, while Bolivia launches a military operation to clear the roads.
boliviarodrigo-pazSenator Esperanza Martínez denounces resistance from the ruling party to the creation of a special commission to investigate up to 2,500 suspected university degrees, following the scandal of former senator Hernán Rivas that exposed a possible fraud network that may have benefited public office holders, including within the justice system.
hernan-rivasesperanza-martinezjemThe business delegation that accompanied President Santiago Peña to Taiwan returned with concrete agreements to open the Taiwanese market to Paraguayan chicken meat, sell carbon credits, and set up bus and solar panel factories in Paraguay.
President Santiago Peña's announcement of building the world's largest artificial intelligence center in Paraguay has generated skepticism among local experts, who point to a lack of technical capacity and warn of the risk of the country becoming a mere supplier of cheap energy in a global geopolitical dispute.
taiwannvidiatsmcA government official within the orbit of Lower House President Raúl Latorre has experienced a significant salary increase, more than doubling his earnings in a short period, coinciding with his recent graduation. The official's pay rose from G. 2.8 million to over G. 29.5 million in less than a year, with a substantial jump occurring shortly before he officially registered his university degree.
raul-latorreA severe food shortage in Paraguay is driving up child malnutrition rates, with the government struggling to distribute aid and international organizations warning of a worsening humanitarian situation.
The total balance of credit cards in the Paraguayan banking system exceeded G. 6.6 trillion (about US$ 1.1 billion), with annual growth of 30.6%, tripling the pace of the economy. Default rates reach 7.9% in lower-middle credit brackets, while the government considers inflation controlled, contrasting with consumers' reality.
bcpThe third edition of the Formando Lectores project, by ueno bank, delivered a library of 500 books in Spanish, Guaraní, and English to the Special School No. 2 John F. Kennedy, which serves students with disabilities. The initiative has guidance from the Ministry of Education and Sciences (MEC) and seeks to strengthen the reading habit in institutions across Paraguay.
formando-lectoresuenoPresident Santiago Peña stated that at the end of his term in 2028, he will be a senator for life, contradicting the bill that allows former presidents to run for elective office. He also commented on the fake diploma scandal of Hernán Rivas and the case of former senator Erico Galeano.
hernan-rivasbasilio-nunezDespite generating 70% of employment and moving US$ 2 billion per year, only 15% of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Paraguay have their own e-commerce channel. The national director of Entrepreneurship of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Romina Da Re, highlighted the opportunity for digitalization during the launch of the IV Expo eCommerce 2026, which takes place on May 21.
e-commerceexpo-ecommerce-2026President Santiago Peña's visit to Taiwan rekindled diplomatic tensions with China, which intensified criticism and pressure. For analyst Julieta Heduvan, the country has gained strategic weight but faces risks and opportunities.
taiwanchinasantiago-penageopoliticaPresident Santiago Peña traveled to Taiwan with 50 business leaders to strengthen commercial and political ties, at the same time Donald Trump and Xi Jinping discussed the island's future in Beijing. Paraguay, the only South American country with full relations with Taiwan, sees its position gain strategic weight amid tensions between the powers.
taiwansantiago-penaThe Paraguayan Senate approved a bill modifying the commuter train law, allowing execution via a direct agreement with the United Arab Emirates and excluding the application of concession, PPP, and public procurement laws. The text now goes to the Chamber of Deputies amid opposition criticism over transparency and costs.
etihad-railfepasaPresident Santiago Peña stated that Horacio Cartes will be the ANR presidential candidate in 2027, highlighting his recovery and energy. Peña asked Cartes to continue leading the party, calling him fundamental support of the government.
horacio-cartessantiago-penaanrPresident Santiago Peña, during an event in San Lorenzo, asked the media to treat corruption cases involving opposition members and those of fellow Colorado Party members, such as Erico Galeano and Hernán Rivas, with the same rigor. Peña avoided detailing the proceedings and highlighted the role of ANEAES in controlling university degrees.
santiago-penaerico-galeanohernan-rivashonor-coloradoArnaldo Aveiro Solís, brother of Senator Guadalupe Aveiro (ANR), was appointed to Itaipu Binacional in April 2026, receiving a monthly salary of G. 21 million, despite not having a university degree. Previously, he worked as a receptionist in the Chamber of Deputies, where he already earned G. 16.35 million. The appointment occurred one month after the senator took office, replacing the convicted Erico Galeano.
itaipucartismoguadalupe-aveiroPresident Santiago Peña acknowledged knowing Juan Roberto 'Jimmy' Villaverde, identified as an operator of a network of pages that attack journalists and opponents, but denied that he works for the government or has an office at Mburuvicha Róga. Public records show Villaverde managed Peña and Alliana's social media during the campaign and held public positions.
santiago-penadespierta-paraguaycomunikPresident Santiago Peña stated that Paraguay is no longer the best-kept secret and is advancing a global insertion strategy focused on Asia, driven by the Bioceanic Corridor and new trade openings, such as the elimination of tariffs for pork and poultry meat in Taiwan.
santiago-penaasiaAround 120,000 people took part in the festivities for the 215th anniversary of National Independence in the Historic Center of Asunción, with a cultural, gastronomic, and artistic program organized by the Office of the First Lady, the government, the city hall, and local entities.
Lists of employees at the binational hydroelectric plant reveal that at least 109 people earn more than President Santiago Peña, including relatives of influential politicians.
itaipucoloradohonor-coloradoThe promissory note mafia, a scam scheme that has lasted two years, remains unpunished. Victims, mostly public employees, denounce judicial delays and new types of scams, such as the sale of promissory notes from closed companies and the non-return of documents after debt settlement. Senators and the mayor of Ciudad del Este met with those affected, but the justice system has not advanced.
ciudad-del-esteThe Central Bank of Paraguay (BCP) celebrates April inflation at 2.3%, below the 4% target, but analyst Alejo García argues the decline is artificial, driven by a 23% appreciation of the guarani against the dollar since July 2025, not by effective monetary policy. García points to flaws in the BCP's toolkit, such as the lack of high-frequency open market operations and an 'inverted corridor' of rates, indicating structural dysfunctions.
bcpguaranialejo-garciaThe Paraguayan Senate's Committee on Science, Technology, Innovation and the Future approved the unification of proposals from the Executive and the Chamber of Deputies to tighten the ban on cell phones and electronic devices in public, private, and subsidized schools throughout the school day, with exceptions for emergencies, authorized pedagogical activities, and students with disabilities. The text now moves to the floor for consideration.
patrick-kemperThe National Minimum Wage Council (Conasam) faces an impasse over the minimum wage adjustment, with employers advocating strict application of the law based on the CPI and workers demanding a 22% increase. The government is considering modernizing the basic basket, while unions accuse the Central Bank of manipulating inflation.
conasambcpA debate over suspending Paraguay’s May military parade reveals tensions between national identity, globalism, and real sovereignty threats, according to Ultima Hora.
adriana-ortizPresident Santiago Peña posted a Mother's Day message on social media, praising his mother and wife and extending his embrace to all Paraguayan mothers.
santiago-penamothers-dayana-maria-palaciosleticia-ocamposCarolina González, a Lambaré councilor under investigation for money laundering and wife of former deputy Orlando Arévalo, announced that mayoral hopeful Cynthia Santacruz has withdrawn in her favor, less than a month before the June 7 internal elections.
lambarecarolina-gonzalezorlando-arevalofuerza-republicanaParaguay's Foreign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano says the government is still waiting for a formal request from the United States to receive a new batch of 25 migrants rejected by the US under the controversial Third Safe Country agreement. The first group of 16 migrants arrived in April and all voluntarily returned to their home countries.
united-statesmigrationthird-safe-countryruben-ramirez-lezcanoForeign Minister Rubén Ramírez Lezcano stated that Paraguay sought diplomatic talks with China, but Beijing's demand to sever ties with Taiwan halted progress. He emphasized that Paraguay will not accept such conditions, reaffirming its alliance with Taiwan based on shared democratic values.
chinataiwanruben-ramirez-lezcanosantiago-penaParaguay's tripartite commission on minimum wage ended without agreement, as unions push for a 22% increase and employers insist on inflation-only adjustment. The government aims to finalize a recommendation by June 15.
Seven of twelve Luque councilors are running for re-election, while three aim for mayor. ABC Color reports that most now campaign as pro-citizen, but critics say they enabled Mayor Carlos Echeverría's lack of transparency over the past four years.
carlos-echeverriaParaguay opposition deputy Raúl Benítez and lawyer Federico Legal criticized cartista lawmakers Rocío Abed and Yamil Esgaib for participating in a transparency event on May 20, citing their consistent rejection of information requests and Esgaib's past aggression toward journalists.
rocio-abedyamil-esgaibPresident Santiago Peña stated that the best of bilateral ties with Brazil is ahead, following a historic visit by over 500 Brazilian investors to Paraguay.
brazilsantiago-penabilateral-relationste-deumDuring the Te Deum for Paraguay’s 215th independence anniversary, Cardinal Adalberto Martínez delivered a homily critical of the government, prompting reactions from political figures. ABC Color reports that the cardinal defended press freedom and criticized authoritarian tendencies, while cartismo allies responded dismissively.
te-deumindependencegovernmentabc-colorPrince Akishino, heir to Japan's throne, will visit Paraguay in August with Princess Kiko to celebrate the 90th anniversary of Japanese immigration. The week-long trip includes a meeting with President Santiago Peña and events with the Nikkei community, highlighting enduring bilateral ties.
prince-akishinojapanjapanese-immigration90th-anniversarynikkei-communityThe legal representative of the construction workers' union at the Aña Cua hydroelectric project has denounced a new ban on photography and video at the site, alleging it is an attempt to conceal irregularities. The consortium managing the project issued a circular prohibiting images, citing intellectual property, and threatening dismissal for violators. The union calls on the government and the Yacyretá Binational Entity to intervene.
ana-cuaPresident Santiago Peña hosted controversial Silicon Valley billionaire Peter Thiel and Crusoe AI president Cully Cavness at Mburuvicha Róga. Chief of Staff Javier Giménez said the government welcomes investors regardless of personal views, while Thiel has previously questioned democracy. The meetings focus on AI, energy, and fintech investment opportunities in Paraguay.
santiago-penapeter-thielinvestmentartificial-intelligencePresident Santiago Peña presided over the annual military parade along the Costanera Norte in Asunción on May 14, 2026, as Paraguay celebrated 215 years of independence. The event featured 3,000 troops, including 2,400 military personnel and 600 police officers, along with aircraft displays and armored vehicles.
independence-daymilitary-paradesantiago-penaasuncionsuper-tucanocostanera-nortePresident Santiago Peña led the military-police parade on Paraguay's Independence Day, reversing an earlier cancellation that had sparked controversy. The event featured 3,000 troops along the Costanera in Asunción.
independence-daymilitary-paradesantiago-penagovernment-reversalasuncionnational-celebrationIn a social media post during Paraguay's independence celebrations, Deputy Rodrigo Gamarra (ANR, HC) suggested that fellow cartista Deputy Jazmín Narváez could be a candidate for governor of Central Department in 2028. The speculation comes despite internal party divisions and the fact that municipal elections have not yet taken place.
jazmin-narvaezrodrigo-gamarracolorado-partyPresident Santiago Peña, speaking after Paraguay's Independence Day Tedeum, touted the country's economic growth but lamented that it is more recognized internationally than domestically. He acknowledged pending work on transparency, job creation, and investment, and reiterated that a tax reform will not occur during his term.
santiago-penaDuring the Te Deum for Paraguay's 215th Independence anniversary, Cardinal Adalberto Martínez Flores delivered a pointed homily criticizing corruption, clientelism, and misuse of public funds, with President Santiago Peña and other high-ranking officials in attendance. He also called for stronger institutional independence and highlighted persistent social inequalities.
te-deumPresident Santiago Peña, accompanied by high-ranking officials, presided over the national Independence Day ceremonies on Thursday, May 14, 2026, marking 215 years since Paraguay's independence, as reported by Unicanal.
independencesantiago-penamay-14215-yearsPresident Santiago Peña and Housing Minister Juan Carlos Baruja delivered 604 homes in Villa Hayes, with a focus on indigenous communities. Baruja touted the government's housing record amid speculation about his political future.
santiago-penajuan-carlos-barujavilla-hayeschacoParaguayan ambassador to the US, Gustavo Leite, says he helped negotiate a state-backed subsidy for a direct Asunción-Miami flight, but the head of Dinac denies the agency can offer such incentives.
dinacaviationParaguay's maquiladora sector exported USD 471 million in the first four months of 2026, up USD 83 million year-on-year, driven by autoparts, food, clothing, and aluminum. The industry now employs 35,357 people, with 45% women, and 24 new programs approved in April alone.
maquilaindustriaParaguay's government has unveiled an ambitious plan, dubbed 'Paraguay 2X', to double the country's GDP to $84 billion within a decade by following the rapid industrialization model of Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea. The strategy, led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC), includes 400 specific actions, 13 strategic sectors, and a joint artificial intelligence center with Taiwan.
taiwanParaguay's ambassador to the US, Gustavo Leite, disclosed that the government offered American Airlines $5 million in subsidies for the Asunción-Miami route, a deal that fell through. After a subsequent agreement with GOL also stalled, Senator Rafael Filizzola accused President Peña and Leite of secret negotiations, while Dinac denied having budget authority for such payments.
gustavo-leitesantiago-penadinacamerican-airlinesConstitutional lawyer Hugo Estigarribia Gutiérrez has criticized the Paraguayan Senate for swearing in Carlos Liseras as a senator, alleging violations of Articles 196 and 137 of the Constitution due to an incompatibility with Liseras holding a public office permit.
carlos-liserashugo-estigarribiaAn opinion piece in ABC Color uses the metaphor 'all roads lead to Rome' to argue that a coordinated disinformation campaign against journalists and independent media in Paraguay originates from the government and the ANR. The article cites alleged financing, fake profiles, and AI-generated attacks but provides no corroborating evidence.
abc-colorAccording to an investigation by Ultima Hora, 109 employees of the Itaipú Binational entity earn more than President Santiago Peña, with some receiving four times his salary. The report highlights cases of double salaries for government officials serving as Itaipú councilors and notes opacity in payroll disclosures.
santiago-penaParaguayan women in leadership roles are balancing demanding careers with family responsibilities, while the nation's political landscape faces institutional disarray and a lack of clear governance. Nine executives and entrepreneurs shared their experiences, highlighting the constant negotiation required to manage businesses, raise children, and maintain personal well-being. Meanwhile, political analysts point to a breakdown in the separation of powers and a chaotic governmental approach, with a focus on internal party politics rather than public administration.
As the 2024 Lula-Peña Itaipú agreement expires on December 31, 2026, Paraguay faces uncertain electricity revenues and unfulfilled transparency promises. Meanwhile, the business sector, through FEPRINCO, offers conditional support to President Peña, demanding structural reforms and criticizing state inefficiency, creating a complex political and economic landscape.
itaipubrazilsantiago-penaelectricity-tarifffeprincobusiness-sector