In a homily described by ABC Color as a “bomba” (bomb) for its bluntness, Cardinal Adalberto Martínez used the Te Deum ceremony marking Paraguay’s 215th independence anniversary to issue a series of social and political critiques. The cardinal, speaking on May 15, 2026, defended freedom of the press and expression, stating that society needs critical voices—a message that ABC Color notes directly contradicts the cartismo movement’s strategy of silencing opponents.
According to ABC Color, the homily enumerated what it called “grave failings” of the current administration. The outlet reported that President Santiago “Pinocho” Peña, who was present, did not appear uncomfortable during the “eterna” (eternal) but forceful address. However, the article suggests the cartismo leadership largely ignored the cardinal’s admonitions, with the message “entering one ear and leaving the other.”
ABC Color also highlighted reactions from other political figures. Raulito Latorre, seeking attention from Peña and Vice President Hugo Alliana, attempted to position himself as a viable candidate for the 2028 vice presidency by taking a selfie at the Palacio de López. Former President Horacio Abdo, speaking in Luque, obliquely criticized Peña, referring to “liberals disguised as colorados” in power. Meanwhile, Dionisio Amarilla is reportedly trying to recruit non-liberal opponents to form a ticket for 2028, aiming to prevent the PLRA from backing Miguel Prieto for the presidency—a move ABC Color interprets as an effort by cartismo to maintain continuity in power.