Nanawa Mayor Accused of Hiding Data, Withholding Salaries with Senate President's Backing

Councilors in the Nanawa district of Paraguay's Presidente Hayes department are leveling serious accusations against their mayor, Claudio Samaniego. They allege that Samaniego has been hiding public data on municipal spending for years and, in retaliation, has withheld their salaries. The councilors claim that Samaniego enjoys protection from Senate President Basilio “Bachi” Núñez (ANR, HC).

Despite a recent vote in the Chamber of Deputies that reportedly shielded several Colorado Party mayors accused of withholding salaries from opposition, dissident, or rival faction councilors, the Nanawa councilors are persisting with their claims. They assert that Samaniego has ignored all resolutions requesting information and transparency data on public expenditure for years.

Adding to the accusations, a councilor and head of the Municipal Board, Fernando Verón (ANR, HC), filed a criminal complaint in May. This complaint stems from the Board's repeated rejection of the fiscal year 2025 accountability report. Verón stated that for three years, the mayor has failed to provide accounts for toll collections from the July 30th bridge, as well as for road collections and maintenance. Consequently, Samaniego faces accusations of producing false documents, making false declarations, embezzlement, breach of trust, and extortion.

The councilors have also requested an audit of the municipality from the General Comptroller's Office (CGR). However, the article notes that the ruling Colorado Party is currently negotiating the re-election of Comptroller Camilo Benítez, who is described by the opposition as being "functional" to the ruling party, suggesting potential hurdles to a thorough investigation.