Wiens: "The flag is not lowered in the face of insecurity"

From the heart of Paraguay, the recent decision to cancel the traditional military and police parade commemorating our Independence Day on May 14th has stirred considerable unease. While the government, through the Minister of Defense, claims the cancellation was a practical decision based on operational needs related to an ongoing kidnapping investigation, many, including prominent presidential hopeful Arnoldo Wiens, see it as a troubling sign of weakness.

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la bandera no se baja ante la inseguridad

Wiens, a dissenting Colorado presidential candidate for 2028, articulated a sentiment shared by many when he declared, "The flag is not lowered in the face of insecurity." His words resonate with a deep-seated national pride and a belief that such traditional celebrations, which honor our identity and sovereignty, should not be suspended due to security concerns. He argues that canceling these events, especially during a time of national reflection, only amplifies the public's sense of vulnerability and abandonment.

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La patria se honra defendiendo a su gente, garantizando seguridad y preservando nuestras tradiciones. No se puede permitir que el miedo termine secuestrando también el espíritu nacional

The kidnapping of Almir de Brum da Silva, which has deeply shaken the nation, has indeed exposed the fragility of security in the northern regions. However, for many Paraguayans, the government's response – opting to cancel national festivities rather than project an image of strength and unity – feels like a capitulation. This approach, critics argue, undermines national morale and erodes trust in institutions that are expected to provide security and uphold national traditions.

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Falta de respuestas

As reported by ABC Color, a publication deeply embedded in the Paraguayan narrative, this situation highlights a critical juncture. The government's handling of security issues and its decisions regarding national symbols are under intense scrutiny. The debate over the parade's cancellation is not merely about a military display; it's about how the nation confronts challenges and upholds its spirit in the face of adversity. From our perspective, the government's actions, however well-intentioned operationally, have unfortunately been perceived as a surrender to fear, a sentiment that runs counter to the very essence of national pride and resilience that Independence Day represents.

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la cancelación del tradicional desfile militar por la Independencia este 14 de mayo, fue una decisión del Poder Ejecutivo, tras recomendaciones del Ministerio de Defensa y las Fuerzas Militares.