Paraguay’s senate on Wednesday expelled one of the few opposition voices in national politics, sparking protests in the capital Asunción, and concerns over the fragile state of the country’s democracy. Senator Kattya Gonzalez from the center-left National Meeting Party was dismissed from her position during an extraordinary session on Wednesday for the “misuse of influence” while in office. Senators who voted in favor of her dismissal accused Gonzalez of administrative misconduct related to three state officials she supervised. Paraguay’s right-wing Colorado Party has a majority in both chambers of congress, holds the presidency and oversees 15 of the 17 state governments following elections in April last year. She will be replaced by her deputy, a lesser-known member of the opposition.

Source: Bueno Aires Herald February 16, 2024 13:53 UTC