Vote Battle in Paraguarí: Cartismo Factions Vie for ANR Leadership

A fierce political battle is unfolding in Paraguay's Paraguarí department, with factions of the ruling Colorado Party (ANR) locked in a close contest for leadership. Governor Norma Zárate de Monges and Urbanism Minister Juan Carlos Baruja, both prominent figures within the "cartismo" movement, are reportedly measuring their strength in a vote-by-vote struggle. The outcome of these internal elections is crucial for determining the party's dominance in the region. The ANR's Electoral Tribunal is scheduled to officially announce the results in key districts tomorrow, following a contentious election day. Preliminary results from the rapid vote count (TREP) indicate a tight race in several areas. In Sapucái, a technical tie has been declared, with both Danilo Cuevas (Lista 2A), supported by Baruja, and Ariel “Lilo” Monges Espínola (Lista 2N), backed by the governor, claiming victory. The current preliminary count shows Monges Espínola leading by a slim margin of 13 votes, with thousands of votes yet to be fully processed. Similarly, the district of Ybycuí is experiencing a nail-biting contest. Incumbent Mayor María Cristina Servín Franco (Lista 2N-HC), seeking re-election, awaits the final tally of over 1,300 votes. She is currently trailing behind former deputy Tomás Fidelino “Ever” Rivas (Fuerza Republicana) by a mere 87 votes. Rivas, known for his past involvement in the "caseros de oro" case, has surprised many by leading the preliminary count.