Paraguay's Peña touts 'wonderland' economy, slams critics

President Santiago Peña painted a picture of a "wonderland" nation during a report to his political mentor, Horacio Cartes, head of the ruling Colorado Party's dominant Honor Colorado movement. Peña emphasized what he called unprecedented economic growth, claiming that microeconomic improvements are reaching the populace.

“

those prophets of division want to see me fight.

Visibly annoyed by criticism of his administration, Peña declared his abhorrence of divisions. He directed sharp criticism at economic and media conglomerates, labeling them as undemocratic entities that pursue division with "petty interests." He suggested these groups desire the end of political parties to more easily impose their business and media agendas.

“

We abhor fights. They don't like this embrace, they don't like democracy.

Speaking at the Colorado Party's governing board, Peña defended his party's legitimacy in power. He contrasted the Colorado Party's democratic credentials with others, accusing some of conducting sham polls and deciding candidates behind closed doors. "Wherever there is hate, we will bring construction, love, and devotion. Coloradism is at its best," he proclaimed, asserting that media and certain intellectuals are out of touch with reality.

“

They dream of the end of political parties, because with weak political parties, they can impose their business and media agendas. Democracy doesn't suit them.