Paraguay opposition unity at risk as PLRA warns Yo Creo party
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Paraguay's PLRA party warns the Yo Creo party that opposition unity for the 2028 elections is at risk.
- The PLRA criticizes Yo Creo's candidates for refusing to participate in polls and potentially splitting the opposition vote.
- Accusations are made against Yo Creo's candidate, Mabel Otazรบ, of being funded by the ruling Colorado Party and involved in corrupt deals.
The Liberal Radical Authentic Party (PLRA) in Paraguay has issued a stern warning to the opposition party Yo Creo, stating that the fragile unity needed for the 2028 general elections is in jeopardy. PLRA leaders expressed concern that Yo Creo's refusal to participate in opinion polls and potentially withdraw candidates could divide the opposition and benefit the ruling party.
We are seeking the unity of all the opposition. The opposition actors must understand that if we want to be in line, on the correct path, we must be united.
During a political event in Presidente Franco, Alto Paranรก, PLRA President Alcides Riveros and Central Governor Ricardo Estigarribia endorsed Roya Tรณrres, the PLRA candidate for mayor. They directly addressed Yo Creo, led by presidential hopeful Miguel Prieto, urging them to join a unified opposition front. Estigarribia stressed the importance of unity, calling the 2026 elections a prelude to the 2028 presidential race.
The PLRA leaders also leveled sharp accusations against Mabel Otazรบ, Yo Creo's candidate for mayor in Presidente Franco. They alleged that Otazรบ is financed by the Colorado Party and involved in illicit dealings related to the "Hambre Cero" (Zero Hunger) program. "We do not have candidates with food for children and from Hambre Cero. We do not have a satellite candidate financed by another political party," Riveros stated, directly challenging Otazรบ's integrity and affiliations.
We do not have candidates with food for children and from Hambre Cero. We do not have a satellite candidate financed by another political party.
Riveros further criticized Prieto's leadership, suggesting his stance indicates a lack of commitment to opposition unity. "If you don't want unity, don't come acting innocent after October 4th," Riveros warned, referencing the upcoming 2026 elections. The PLRA insists that candidates must agree to pre-election measurements to ensure a cohesive strategy against the Colorado Party.
If you don't want unity, don't come acting innocent after October 4th.
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.