In Paraguarí, talk of unity, but Governor Zárate and Minister Baruja avoid each other for now | ABC Color (PY) | es | 23 de junio de 2026 a la - 18:45

A rally in Caapucú, Paraguarí, brought together Colorado Party leadership, including President Santiago Peña and Minister of Urbanism, Housing, and Habitat Juan Carlos Baruja. Baruja used social media to highlight the event, posting about the "unity and strength of the Colorado Party" and emphasizing a "clear vision and commitment to continue building together" for the October municipal elections.

However, the absence of Paraguarí's governor, Norma Zárate de Monges, drew attention. She is currently traveling in the United States to watch the final matches of Paraguay's national football team in the FIFA World Cup. Baruja, who is rumored to be a potential vice-presidential candidate in 2028, was present with other party figures, including presidential advisor José Alberto Alderete and the incumbent mayor of Caapucú, Gustavo Penayo, who is seeking re-election.

Governor Zárate confirmed her trip to the U.S. and stated she would return the following week. She was contacted by ABC Color regarding her absence from the housing delivery event presided over by President Peña and the subsequent party rally. Zárate affirmed her strong support for Colorado Party unity across the department's 18 districts for the upcoming municipal elections on October 4th, acknowledging that political differences exist but stressing the current need for unity.

Baruja's public statements about unity contrast with the palpable rivalries within the ruling party in the ninth department. The article notes that candidates for governor supported by Baruja have a slight advantage over those backed by other factions. Zárate, identifying herself as a "great Colorado," expressed support for President Peña's administration.