Juan Carlos Baruja critiques political movement's internal friction

Juan Carlos Baruja, Paraguay's Minister of Urbanism, Housing, and Habitat, has issued a critique regarding the internal dynamics of his political movement following recent municipal elections. Baruja admitted that the ruling leadership made a mistake by allowing various sectors—including governors, deputies, and senators—to promote their own vice-presidential candidates for the 2028 elections.

He stated that this openness caused a ‘clash between all actors’ and diverted attention away from the municipal elections. Baruja argued that the selection of the running mate should have remained the exclusive decision of the presidential candidate, Pedro Alliana, as has been the historical practice.

Reflecting on the electoral setbacks faced by the ANR in Asunción, Baruja emphasized the need for political leaders to practice humility and avoid arrogance. He noted that his own political experience has taught him to ‘tread on the ground’ and suggested that some newer members of the movement need to better listen to and assimilate the experiences of veteran leaders.