The president of Paraguay's Congress, Basilio "Bachi" Núñez, reacted with irony upon learning that he is the most sought-after figure this year to represent the traditional Judas Kái during the San Juan celebrations. Far from showing any discomfort, the Colorado Party senator stated that he himself takes care of having his effigy made to be displayed at Mercado 4 in Asunción.
"There is no annoyance whatsoever; this is part of politics," Núñez said during an interview, commenting on the fact that he appears among the most chosen figures for the traditional burning. The legislator also referred to the negative perception of his public image and argued that his political style reflects a firm stance within the Senate.
"I have a terrible image because I like being the bad guy; I'm a tough senator and I'm going to storm back into the Senate once again," he declared. His statements came after merchants at Mercado 4 confirmed that the president of Congress tops the list of Judas Kái requests this year.
According to the vendors, numerous customers specifically request an effigy bearing the face of the head of Congress, making him the most in-demand character of the season. Alongside Núñez, other national political figures and public authorities are also chosen, as the tradition typically uses these personalities as symbols of popular criticism and satire. The merchants also offer the option of customizing the effigies with the face of whichever person the buyer desires.
Each Judas Kái costs approximately G. 100,000 and includes the effigy along with firecrackers to accompany the traditional burning, one of the most representative customs of the San Juan festivities in Paraguay, where humor, social criticism, and popular expressions once again take center stage every June.