Political scientist Luis Fretes, a Liberal candidate for city council in Asunción, issued a stern warning during celebrations for the 139th anniversary of the Authentic Radical Liberal Party (PLRA). He said the Paraguayan capital is experiencing one of the worst periods in its history and compared a potential victory for governing-party candidate Camilo Pérez (ANR, Honor Colorado) to the sacking of the city by Triple Alliance troops in 1869, according to his statement.
Fretes said that, just as the city had known worse times in the past, there was a danger that a similar tragedy could recur in 2026 with Pérez and “his usual looters” entering municipal government. He emphasized that the upcoming elections would be decisive for Asunción’s future, describing them as a democratic battle to recover a city suffering from institutional deterioration, neglect, and lost opportunities.
The candidate, who belongs to the internal movement LIDERA (Democratic Liberalism), argued that the PLRA has a duty to defend the “Mother of Cities” and unite with other citizens to restore respect for residents, improve quality of life, and bring cultural, social, and economic development back to the streets. He proposed that the party lead a “National Union” to rebuild respect among citizens, promote tolerance, and defend every person’s right to live with dignity.
Fretes concluded with an appeal for the PLRA, when it turns 140 next year, to celebrate by entering municipal government and restoring Asunción residents’ pride in living in the capital.