Paraguay prosecutor investigated for alleged links to 'promissory note mafia' and election activities

Paraguay's Jurado de Enjuiciamiento de Magistrados (JEM) has launched a preliminary investigation into prosecutor Alejandra Vera González. This action follows journalistic reports that linked her to individuals facing prosecution in the "promissory note mafia" scheme. The JEM's decision, based on Law No. 6814/2021, also mandates the retrieval of detailed reports and all relevant background information.

The investigation focuses on two main allegations against Vera. First, her alleged candidacy for a position within the Independent Electoral Tribunal at the Faculty of Law of the National University of Asunción (UNA), despite her current role as a prosecutor. Second, her purported connections to individuals indicted in the "promissory note mafia" case.

“

The investigation contemplates two facts attributed to the prosecutor: her supposed candidacy for a position within the Independent Electoral Tribunal (TEI) of the Faculty of Law of the UNA, despite serving as a prosecutor, and her alleged links to those indicted in the "promissory note mafia" case.

During the JEM session, Minister Manuel Ramírez Candia highlighted that the council had reviewed media reports detailing accusations from victims against the prosecutor. These reports suggested Vera might be collaborating with an indicted individual and engaging in political campaigning related to the UNA Law Faculty elections.

Ramírez Candia noted that the JEM must determine if Vera's electoral participation is compatible with her duties as a prosecutor. He recalled that Article 62 of Law No. 1562/2000, the Organic Law of the Public Ministry, outlines incompatibilities for prosecutors. These include holding or running for any elected public office, as well as other paid public or private positions, with the exception of part-time teaching that does not interfere with their prosecutorial duties. The law also prohibits prosecutors from practicing law or serving as notaries, with certain legal exceptions.

“

it is necessary to determine whether that electoral participation is compatible with the exercise of the prosecutorial function.