Senator Alleges Forced Campaign Contributions for Asunción Mayoral Candidate

Senator Lilian Samaniego has accused government ministers and directors of being compelled to contribute funds to the mayoral campaign of Camilo Pérez, a pre-candidate for Asunción representing the ruling Honor Colorado movement.

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Ministers and directors from all entities have to go and put money for the officialist candidate.

Samaniego, a dissident member of the National Republican Association (ANR), stated that this alleged practice demonstrates "audacity" and a "lack of respect" for the institutional framework of the Colorado Party. She did not specify the amount each official is allegedly required to contribute.

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What is serious is not only that they force ministers and directors to put money for the officialists, but they will use the Governing Board as the officialist's command center.

Speaking at a press conference, Samaniego asserted that ministers and directors from various state entities are obligated to provide financial support for Pérez's campaign. She suggested that public resources might be involved, stating, "I have no doubt that it comes from there. Where else would it come from?"

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They don't respect anyone. They use and misuse the institution, the people, but on June 7, there, in the solitude of the vote, I am sure that on list 7, Arnaldo Samaniego will be the chosen one because he represents him, he is a sectional president. He represents Colorado authenticity, the principles and values of the Colorado Party.

Her remarks come as the party prepares for internal municipal elections on June 7. Samaniego's brother, Arnaldo Samaniego, is also a pre-candidate for mayor of Asunción, representing a different faction within the party. Lilian Samaniego expressed confidence that her brother would be chosen in the primaries, as he represents "authenticity" and the core principles of the Colorado Party.

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I have no doubt that it comes from there. Where else would it come from? And it is important to ask the ministers, surely they will deny it. But I tell you responsibly, they have to go and bring a certain amount.