Asunción protesters demand agrarian reform and housing funds

A large-scale mobilization involving peasants, indigenous groups, social organizations, and construction workers took place in Asunción on Tuesday. Led by social leader Pulciano Sánchez, the protesters marched from Plaza de Armas toward the presidential residence, Mburuvicha Róga, to present a manifesto to President Santiago Peña.

The demonstrators are demanding improvements to social housing and agrarian reform. Specifically, they are calling for increased resources for the National Social Housing Fund (Fonavis) and the full execution of the 2026 budget for social housing. Protesters noted that Fonavis has only executed 20.7% of its budget, totaling USD 17 million of the planned USD 86 million. They are also seeking the recovery of lands through Indert, alleging that certain territories have been taken by foreigners.

The protests caused significant traffic disruptions in the center of Asunción, with blockades reported on Mariscal López Avenue and several key streets including Estrella, 14 de Mayo, Palma, Montevideo, and Piribebuy.