Paraguay, Peña announces that he will defend himself from impeachment proceedings

The former president of Paraguay, Santiago Peña, has announced that he will submit to impeachment proceedings against him and that he will exercise his right to defense. In a message published on social media, after the Parliament session called to examine his resignation was interrupted due to lack of a quorum, Peña assured that he will face the proceedings "with arguments and evidence, respecting the Constitution and the institutions of the Republic". This was reported by the Paraguayan newspaper ABC Color.

"Not for a matter of personal pride, but because being accountable and providing explanations is also a responsibility towards the Paraguayan people," Peña wrote, adding that he will fully collaborate with the competent institutions to clarify the facts and establish responsibilities.

The former head of state also argued that the return of savings to Ueno Bank customers cannot depend on the outcome of the proceedings against him. “One thing cannot be an excuse to postpone the other,” he said, asking the population to remain calm.

The message arrives at the height of the political and financial crisis following the liquidation of Ueno Bank and while the opposition is calling for the impeachment proceedings to continue, despite Peña's resignation.