Rivas and the impunity of power

The case of former senator Hernán Rivas, appointed to represent the judiciary before the impeachment court despite allegedly not meeting the minimum requirements, exposes the current administration's arbitrary and dictatorial approach, according to the article.

While Rivas may face conviction for allegedly using a fake law degree to secure his position, the article argues this would not be a just resolution. Instead, it suggests such a conviction would divert attention from the broader responsibility of those who facilitated his appointment.

The piece points to a history of impunity, citing the Rodrigo Quintana case, where the article claims the judiciary was manipulated to convict only the perpetrator of a murder, while shielding those who ordered the police to enter a private property and shoot. It also notes that political circumstances at the time prevented an impeachment process against then-President Horacio Cartes.

Furthermore, the article outlines a recurring pattern of power abuse for personal or political gain. This includes appointing family members, allies, and political operators to positions and rigging bids to favor economic groups connected to officials. The author contends that institutional processes are often disregarded, with authorities sometimes resorting to outright disregard for democratic rules.

When misconduct or criminal behavior by members of the ruling party comes to light, the article states there is a consistent effort to protect them. However, if the individual is less significant, like Rivas, or the situation is unmanageable, they might be partially abandoned. The author concludes that the impunity with which these individuals operate and their control over institutions discourages democratic aspirations, but insists that democracy's tools must be used to resist those who believe they own the country.