Bachi defends delay in forming IPS corruption inquiry: “I can’t babysit my colleagues”

Basilio “Bachi” Núñez says Paraguay’s Senate cannot form a commission to investigate alleged corruption at the IPS social security institute and the Ministry of Health because some lawmakers have not submitted their nominees.

The special investigation commission was approved on Aug. 12 under Resolution No. 1903. Its formation gained renewed attention after reports from the Comptroller General revealed what they described as multimillion-guarani inconsistencies and raised questions about the management of IPS.

“

It is not being formed because there are blocs that are not sending them.

Asked about the delay, Núñez blamed the opposition blocs that had yet to send the names of their representatives. “It is not being formed because there are blocs that are not sending them,” he said. When questioned about his responsibility as Senate president, he replied that he had to consult the various blocs and could not make decisions assigned to his colleagues.

“

You have to ask the blocs. One cannot act as a babysitter for one’s colleagues. I am just one more among them.

“You have to ask the blocs. One cannot act as a babysitter for one’s colleagues. I am just one more among them,” Núñez said. He later promised to wait one more hour for the outstanding nominations and then issue the resolution, saying the six senators should make the decisions themselves.

Núñez named Natalicio Chase, Antonio Barrios and Lizarella Valiente as representatives of the Honor Colorado bloc. Senator Dionisio Amarilla, a political ally, was also listed. Once installed, the commission will choose a chair, deputy chair and rapporteur from among its members. Its mandate will last 180 working days and may be extended for an equal or shorter period.

“

Until today I will wait one more hour and then the resolution will be issued. The decision is for the six to make.