WorldBrief
Paraguay prosecutors charge former President Peña after bank collapse
A judge said the former president would be held at a military base during the investigation, after prosecutors questioned him in Asunción, AP reported.
The numbers
- Offenses named by the prosecutor as under investigation in Peña’s case, according to AP
- 2 alleged offenses
Paraguayan prosecutors charged former President Santiago Peña on November 7 in connection with the collapse of Ueno Bank, The Associated Press reported.
Chief prosecutor for corruption and economic crimes Nancy Salomón said at a news conference that Peña would be investigated for breach of trust and administration for personal gain, AP reported.
Earlier Saturday, prosecutors questioned Peña at the attorney general’s compound in Asunción, the capital, according to AP. Later that day, Judge Humberto Otazu said Peña would be held at a military base while investigations continue. The judge’s announcement followed a request from prosecutors for detention during their investigation, AP reported. Peña has denied wrongdoing.
The criminal proceedings follow Peña’s removal from office in an impeachment trial on Friday. Paraguay’s Senate said Pedro Alliana was sworn in as president on November 6 to complete the 2023–2028 term. The succession filled the presidency for the remainder of that term while the allegations against Peña are being pursued in a separate criminal case.
What we don't know yet
- How will Peña respond to the reported charges in the criminal proceedings?
- What further findings will prosecutors present as the investigation continues?
Timeline
Pedro Alliana was sworn in as president after Santiago Peña’s removal in an impeachment trial.
AP reported that prosecutors questioned and charged Peña and that a judge announced detention at a military base during the investigation.