ASUNCION
Former Paraguayan President Santiago Peña appeared before prosecutors today facing corruption charges stemming from his impeachment last month.
The National Congress voted to impeach Peña on October 28, with 68 lawmakers voting to remove him—exceeding the two-thirds majority required. Prosecutors allege he diverted $12 million in public funds and engaged in influence peddling involving state-owned enterprises and public contracts. A judicial order placed Peña under house arrest on November 1.
Vice President Marisol López assumed the presidency immediately after the impeachment vote. Peña's legal team has denied all accusations and characterized the process as politically motivated.
The Attorney General's office initiated the investigation in September following weeks of public protests in Asunción demanding accountability from senior officials. Peña's initial hearing before an investigative judge is scheduled for November 15, when the judge will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed to trial.
