Ayolas fishermen say 'wonder country' narrative misses riverside reality

Fishermen in Ayolas are challenging President Santiago Peña's optimistic portrayal of Paraguay as a "wonder country." They assert that the reality for communities along the riverside remains bleak, marked by persistent unemployment, poverty, and a lack of essential services.

Tomás Bogado, a leader in the fishing sector from the Atinguy settlement, directly contested the presidential address. He stated that numerous families are trapped in a severe economic crisis, lacking basic infrastructure and work opportunities. Bogado criticized the president's travels abroad, suggesting he is out of touch with the daily struggles of residents in these areas.

The fishing industry itself is in a critical state, with algae blooms in the Paraná River hindering normal operations. Despite repeated requests for river cleaning and sector support, Bogado claims state institutions have failed to provide adequate responses. He attributes this inaction to a lack of political will, forcing many families to rely on food kits from the Yacyretá Binational Entity (EBY), a situation he describes as indicative of neglect.

Compounding these economic hardships are severe deficiencies in the healthcare system. Both the Ayolas Integrated Hospital and the Atinguy Family Health Unit reportedly suffer from constant shortages of doctors and medicines. This forces patients to travel to distant cities for specialized care, further highlighting the disparity between the government's narrative of progress and the lived experiences of these riverside communities.