Internal elections proceed smoothly in Paraguay's San Pedro, with minor controversy

Internal elections for various political parties and movements are underway in Paraguay's San Pedro department, with authorities reporting a peaceful process. The National Police confirmed no significant incidents have occurred at polling stations across the department's 22 districts.

San Pedro's Police Director, Commissioner Enrique Martínez, highlighted the calm atmosphere among voters. The elections, including those for the ruling Colorado Party's internal structures, are proceeding without public order disturbances. Security forces are monitoring all polling locations.

Despite the general calm, a controversy emerged in Nueva Germania after a video surfaced showing congressman Leonardo Saiz allegedly distributing money. Saiz, whose daughter is a candidate for municipal mayor, stated the funds were for mechanical services and occurred away from polling sites. He asserted that the amount, 70,000 Paraguayan guaranis, was insufficient to buy a vote and that he regularly assists party members.

Santaní, also known as San Estanislao, is a focal point with over 22,000 registered voters. The internal contest there pits Carlos Verón, backed by the current mayor and the Minister of Agriculture, against Cristian D’Ecclesiis, supported by his brother, the governor of San Pedro. This race is seen as a gauge of strength between major factions within the ruling Colorado Party in the region. Significant voter turnout is also reported in Santa Rosa and San Pedro de Ycuamandyyú.

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For 70,000 [guaranis], nobody is going to buy a vote.