Paraguay’s former president Santiago Peña appeared at the Attorney General’s Office on Saturday, November 7, after his impeachment and placement under house arrest during a deepening banking crisis.
Reuters reported that prosecutors were still determining possible charges on Friday, including whether to pursue an influence-peddling allegation. Peña has denied wrongdoing and described the bank’s problems as a regulatory matter. An impeachment decision and a criminal conviction are separate legal outcomes.
Vice President Pedro Alliana was sworn in on Friday to complete the presidential term, which runs through August 2028. The transition keeps the presidency within the long-governing Colorado Party.
The crisis centres on digital lender ueno. Its collapse has restricted customers’ access to their money and prompted demonstrations in Asunción. Peña held shares in the bank’s holding company until March 2025, Reuters reported.
Lawmakers supporting his removal alleged conflicts of interest and interference with regulatory oversight. Those allegations remain disputed by Peña. The immediate challenge for his successor includes restoring public confidence while authorities address the consequences for depositors and the wider financial system.
Peña had announced his resignation on November 5 while lawmakers were pursuing impeachment. His subsequent removal did not end the investigations. The latest development is his appearance before prosecutors, with the precise criminal case still taking shape. UPI reported on the resignation and proceedings.
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