How Santiago Peña responded to criticism of his management report

Paraguayan President Santiago Peña addressed critiques of his recent management report presented to Congress, acknowledging that while he is "not satisfied," the administration "cannot ignore the advances." He characterized the criticisms as a normal and healthy aspect of democratic discourse, emphasizing that diverse political sectors have the right to comment on his report.

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I think it's great. That's kind of the idea. I give my report, and then the different political sectors have the opportunity to comment on my report.

"I think it's great. That's kind of the idea. I give my report, and then the different political sectors have the opportunity to comment on my report," Peña stated, highlighting that his annual accountability report contrasts with the permanent platform for critique available to his detractors. He championed Paraguay's freedom of expression and a free press, asserting that differing views on government performance are natural within a democratic framework.

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We are not satisfied. There is still a lot to do. I am the first to say that there is still a lot to do, but we cannot ignore the advances that have been made.

While not delving into specific criticisms, Peña insisted that his administration has made progress, citing economic growth, poverty reduction, and job creation. However, he candidly admitted that the country is still recovering from historical crises and that significant work remains. "We are not satisfied. There is still a lot to do. I am the first to say that there is still a lot to do, but we cannot ignore the advances that have been made," he declared. He also revealed that he had issued a stern warning to his cabinet ministers, stating, "I told all the ministers: we have to do even more, or there will probably be consequences."

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I told all the ministers: we have to do even more, or there will probably be consequences.

Peña defended the performance of his Health Minister, María Teresa Barán, against criticisms of the healthcare system, stating that she inherited a severely deteriorated public structure. He reiterated that criticism is welcome and that the government aims to improve its performance. "Criticism, welcome. We want to do more. We have to do more," he emphasized, reinforcing his commitment to continuous improvement despite acknowledging the challenges and demands that still lie ahead for his administration.

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She is doing a tremendous job.