Lack of Transparency and Serious Irregularities Marked Electoral Organization in Cabañas

Municipal internal elections in Cabañas, Caacupé, Paraguay, ended amidst widespread criticism regarding the organization and integrity of the process. While no violence was reported, voters expressed frustration over significant flaws that undermined the basic principles of suffrage.

From the outset, the elections faced delays due to the absence of poll workers, preventing timely opening of polling stations. As the day progressed, voters reported further irregularities, including the presence of materials inside polling stations intended to guide voters, raising concerns about the effectiveness of oversight mechanisms.

One of the most striking issues observed was the simultaneous entry of up to three individuals into voting booths at Table 7. This practice, witnessed by numerous voters, was seen as a direct violation of the secret ballot principle and highlighted the fragility of controls within the electoral precinct. The coordination office was reportedly aware of these occurrences.

Roque Cáceres, the Electoral Registry coordinator, faced criticism for his inaction. He allegedly dismissed the violations, claiming that representatives had agreed to permit the observed voting methods. This explanation further fueled skepticism among attendees, especially as Cáceres also admitted to not noticing the reports of vote-buying instructions circulating.

Juana Sugasti, the head of the Electoral Registry in Caacupé, stated that such practices are irregular and that no agreement between representatives can alter electoral rules, as it could constitute an electoral crime. The overall perception among voters was one of deficient organization and a failure to guarantee the normal development of the vote.

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