An image published on social media has cast doubt on the independence of former goalkeeper José Luis Chilavert, pre-candidate for mayor of Luque under the opposition movement Unidos por Luque. In the photo, Chilavert appears among the leadership of the Cartist movement Somos Luque, alongside pre-candidate Hugo Farías. The photo was taken at Farías's campaign headquarters, surrounded by candidates for councilor from the ruling party.
On social media, the reaction was immediate. “It turns out that the indomitable José Luis Chilavert, the man who tore down defenses and spat truths without breaking a sweat, fell flat into an ambush worthy of a beginner,” wrote one user. Another commented: “Another candidate who bends before ill-gotten money. He has no shame in being seen embracing a Cartist candidate like Hugui Farías.”
Chilavert, on his official page, tried to contain the controversy. He said he was invited by a radio station for an interview and, while parking his car, people approached to take photos. “Mr. Hugo Farías appeared, and he also posed for the photo,” he stated. The former goalkeeper assured he will not withdraw his candidacy: “Everyone can speak and think differently. We are united Luqueños, List 5, the only valid option. We are not contaminated by corruption.”
Chilavert's candidacy has the support of the National Crusade Party, the Freedom Party of Senator Eduardo Nakayama, and Patria Querida, led by former Senator Stephan Rasmussen. However, from the start, his pre-candidacy was seen as a divisive factor in the opposition. Initially, there was an expectation of an alliance with other parties, which suggested a poll with councilor Belén Maldonado (PLRA). Chilavert reportedly refused the filter, and the alliance fell apart. Maldonado is now running under the Citizen Participation Party and other opposition parties.
The episode has revived speculation that Chilavert's candidacy aims to split the opposition vote in Luque, indirectly benefiting the Cartist candidate. The photo with Farías, even if casual, has further fueled this distrust.