Paraguay: Trial resumes for ex-senator Kueider over $200,000 smuggling case

The trial against former Argentine senator Eduardo Kueider and his partner, Iara Guinsel, for allegedly smuggling $200,000 is scheduled to resume in Paraguay. The trial, taking place before the Specialized Economic Crimes Court in Asunción, could see the prosecution expand its charges against the pair.

Kueider and Guinsel were detained in December 2024 while carrying undeclared money in Paraguay. This incident led to Kueider's removal from the Senate and subsequent extradition requests from Paraguayan authorities. These requests are linked to related cases in Argentina, where he is under investigation for alleged illicit enrichment and bribery.

Kueider had been a trusted figure for Entre Ríos Governor Gustavo Bordet and held positions as general secretary in his administration. He also served as a councilor and official in Concordia. His recent vote in favor of Javier Milei's "Ley Bases" in the Senate marked a significant political maneuver.

Following the conclusion of the trial in Paraguay and any potential sentence served there, Kueider is expected to be extradited to Argentina. The trial's resumption is set for Tuesday, June 16, at 10:30 local time in Asunción's Palace of Justice. The court is expected to continue receiving evidence, which began during the first session last week, and will also address the prosecution's potential request to broaden the smuggling charges.

The court will decide whether to admit the expanded charges or postpone the decision. Both Kueider and Guinsel abstained from testifying during the initial hearing but indicated they might do so later in the proceedings. The tribunal is composed of judges Elsa García, Adriana Planás, and Matías Garcete Piris.