Paraguay's Honor Colorado Celebrates Unity, Sidesteps 2028 Presidential Ticket Speculation

In Paraguay, the political landscape within the ruling Honor Colorado movement is a constant dance of alliances and ambitions, particularly as the 2028 presidential elections loom. Raúl Latorre, the current President of the Chamber of Deputies and a key figure in the movement, recently addressed the press following a meeting of the Political Command. He emphasized the gathering's purpose: to celebrate the 'unity' of Honor Colorado and to focus efforts on the upcoming municipal elections, deliberately steering clear of definitive statements regarding the presidential ticket for 2028.

This narrative of unity, however, masks underlying tensions. While Latorre insists that the presidential candidacy was not on the agenda, it is an open secret that party leader Horacio Cartes has shown a clear preference for Juan Carlos Baruja, the Minister of Urbanism, Housing and Habitat, as the running mate for Pedro Alliana. This perceived endorsement has stirred internal debate, with various factions proposing their own candidates. Governors are backing César "Cesarito" Sosa, while a significant bloc of 44 deputies, including Latorre himself, are reportedly pushing for Latorre's inclusion on the ticket.

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It was a true republican party, a celebration of the unity of the Honor Colorado movement with all the members of the national command. We reflected on upcoming projects. We listened to the Colorado polka, we celebrated friendship and unity.

Latorre's public statements aim to project an image of cohesion, asserting that the 'absolute priority' is the municipal elections. He noted that Alliana himself was seen campaigning with his preferred candidate for mayor of Asunción on the same night he was photographed with Baruja, suggesting a strategic balancing act. The situation highlights a common dynamic in Paraguayan politics, where public pronouncements of unity often coexist with intense behind-the-scenes maneuvering for future power. The eventual selection of Alliana's running mate will undoubtedly be a critical juncture for Honor Colorado, shaping its trajectory for the next presidential cycle.

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The issue of the ticket was not touched upon, nor was it really mentioned as Cale (former senator Juan Carlos Galaverna) had said.