San Pedro: Interim mayors appointed amid intense power struggle within Colorado Party

San Pedro, Paraguay is navigating a period of political transition as interim mayors assume office following the resignations of several incumbents seeking re-election in the upcoming October municipal elections. The appointments have been characterized by significant internal negotiations and fierce competition, primarily within the ruling Colorado Party.

The political landscape in San Pedro is shaping up for a competitive municipal election on October 4. The Colorado Party faces a united opposition in several districts, where liberals and leftist sectors are forming electoral alliances. The "Yo Creo" political movement is also preparing to field its own candidates in certain areas of the department.

The early departure of municipal leaders is mandated by the Organic Municipal Law, which requires those seeking to retain their positions to step down for their electoral campaigns. Municipal councils have elected interim mayors to complete the current 2021-2025 term, which has been extended by one year by law.

The internal Colorado Party elections have seen a strong contest between Agriculture Minister Carlos Giménez and San Pedro Governor Freddy D’Ecclesiis. Both are prominent figures within the Honor Colorado movement but lead distinct factions in the region. This rivalry has influenced the selection of interim mayors in several key districts.

In Santa Rosa del Aguaray, Silvia Trubger, aligned with D’Ecclesiis, resigned to pursue re-election. She was succeeded by councilman Pedro Cabañas, who is associated with Giménez's faction. Cabañas had previously lost to Trubger in the party primaries, but his faction secured enough votes in the Municipal Council to appoint him. Similarly, in Puerto Antequera, Julio Alfonzo, from the governor's team with support from the minister, left his post. Fernando Santacruz, representing the Agriculture Minister's faction and supported by Colorado and Liberal councilors, was elected as his replacement. In Tacuatí, Sindulfo Franco, from the Agriculture Minister's team, secured the election of his brother-in-law, Derlis López, to complete the municipal term, thus maintaining political control. In San Pablo, Liberal mayor Jorge Codas also resigned, handing over the position to Agustín Pelagio González, a party colleague, ensuring his political sector retains leadership of the commune during the transition.