Senate begins process to elect new Ombudsman and deputy

Paraguay's Senate has initiated the process to elect a new Ombudsman and Deputy Ombudsman, filling crucial constitutional roles whose mandates are expiring. The Senate's Advisory Commissions received the first group of candidates this week, marking the beginning of a public hearing phase that is expected to span two months due to the high number of applicants.

In total, 67 candidates have submitted their applications for the two positions. The process began with the singing of the national anthem and a musical performance, followed by presentations from the initial nominees. Among the first to present were the current Ombudsman, Rafael Luis Avila Macke, and the current Deputy Ombudsman, Natalia Sosa Flores. Avila Macke highlighted his tenure and pledged to strengthen his work if re-elected, despite facing a charge of contempt in May 2025.

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Today we begin the hearings for Ombudsman and Deputy Ombudsman. These are two very important positions. They are positions provided for within the National Constitution, whose five-year mandate expires next month. Consequently, we are calling for public hearings to listen to each of the candidates.

Senator Javier Zacarías Irún, president of the Commission on Constitutional Affairs, emphasized the importance of these roles, stating that the Ombudsman's office is constitutionally mandated to defend the Paraguayan people. He explained that the hearings aim to understand each candidate's vision, intentions, and plans for the institution.

This selection process is unfolding concurrently with reports that the ruling party is finalizing nominations for the positions of Comptroller and Sub-Comptroller General of the Republic. Critics suggest this timing could indicate an effort to consolidate political control over key state institutions, a move described by some as "copamiento" or a complete takeover.

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More than fifty (67) applicants will pass through here in the Senate. We want to know their vision and their opinion regarding the institution and to know what they intend, what they want, what they seek, and what they would do in their capacity as Ombudsman, Deputy Ombudsman.