Paraguayan Senate Moves to Decide Santiago Peña's Political Future

The Paraguayan Senate has advanced impeachment proceedings against President Santiago Peña after unanimously approving evidence against him, leaving his political future uncertain amid the Ueno Bank financial crisis. Peña resigned on November 5, but the resignation remains unresolved due to lack of congressional quorum. During Friday's session, Peña requested a 72-hour extension to prepare his defense, but the Senate rejected it, requiring him to appear or send legal representatives. His lawyers argue the impeachment should cease following his resignation, and they question his sole responsibility for appointing the central bank chief. The crisis stems from Ueno Bank's collapse, affecting about three million clients, with accusations of conflicts of interest and irregularities. Senators will now deliberate and vote on a final verdict, with the outcome hinging on legislative decisions amid the resignation dispute.