Paraguayan leaders react to Cartes and Abdo Benítez meeting

Paraguayan Vice President Pedro Alliana and Interior Minister Enrique Riera have expressed differing reactions following a meeting between former presidents Horacio Cartes and Mario Abdo Benítez.

Vice President Alliana defended Cartes personally, describing him as a “friend, companion, and brother,” and stated he would continue to defend him if necessary. However, Alliana criticized Cartes’ inner circle, suggesting the leader is surrounded by people who “contaminate” him and cause him to make mistakes. He noted that any explanations regarding the meeting with Abdo Benítez must come directly from Cartes.

In contrast, Interior Minister Enrique Riera expressed disappointment over the meeting, describing the image of the two former presidents as “eloquent” and difficult to explain given their political history. Riera reaffirmed his allegiance to the Peña faction, stating, “I am not going to be in that team,” and emphasized that his position is based on conviction rather than convenience. He also signaled his support for Vice President Pedro Alliana’s potential 2028 candidacy.