Santiago Peña marks three years in office amid protests and social program highlights

As President Santiago Peña marks three years in office, Paraguay faces a sharp divide between government claims of progress and public discontent. Protesters, including labor unions and peasant organizations, marched in Asunción under the slogan ‘Paraguay duele’ (Paraguay hurts), denouncing precarious living conditions and unfulfilled promises. Some demonstrations were reportedly interrupted by police forces.

In contrast, President Peña has highlighted major social achievements, specifically the ‘Hambre Cero’ (Zero Hunger) program. He stated the initiative invests approximately USD 320 million annually to provide daily meals to over 1,050,000 schoolchildren. Peña also emphasized the ‘Che Róga Porã’ housing program and expressed a desire to be remembered for his ideas and social impact rather than infrastructure alone.

Additionally, Peña announced plans to facilitate immigration for Brazilian citizens in northern departments like Concepción and Amambay. This move is linked to infrastructure goals, including a long-delayed international crossing over the Río Apa to connect Paraguay with Brazil’s Mato Grosso do Sul state.