Former Paraguayan President Nicanor Duarte Frutos has sparked a fresh political debate after calling on Vice President Pedro Alliana to distance himself from what he described as the failures and inefficiency of several members of President Santiago Peña’s government.
Duarte Frutos made the remarks on September 11 during events marking the 139th anniversary of Paraguay’s Colorado Party (ANR).
Nicanor's warning to Alliana
Duarte Frutos argued that Alliana, who is positioning himself for the 2028 presidential election, needs to establish his own political identity and respond more directly to social demands.
He particularly pointed to concerns surrounding the country's health sector and the demands of medical professionals.
According to Duarte Frutos, Alliana should not become associated with what he considers failures within Peña's administration if he wants to build a presidential campaign capable of generating support and enthusiasm.
Duarte Frutos also argued that the government needs to show greater sensitivity toward vulnerable groups and suggested that Paraguay should reconsider certain tax exemptions to create more room for social spending.
Alliana responds
Pedro Alliana quickly pushed back against the former president's comments.
The vice president said he is part of Santiago Peña's government and does not intend to distance himself from it.
At the same time, Alliana acknowledged that the administration still has work to do, particularly regarding demands from doctors and the health sector. He said he continues to raise concerns and make recommendations to the president when he believes changes are necessary.
Why this matters
The exchange comes as Paraguay's political parties are already looking ahead to the 2028 presidential elections.
Alliana is emerging as an important figure within the ruling Colorado Party, while Duarte Frutos remains an influential former president and political voice within the party.
His latest comments therefore highlight growing discussions about the future direction of the Colorado Party and how the government will respond to social and political pressure ahead of the next presidential race.
The political conversation in Paraguay is likely to intensify as the 2028 election approaches.
