Pedro Alliana, crisis-hit Paraguay’s sudden new president

Pedro Alliana, a former vice-president of Paraguay, was swiftly appointed as the nation's new leader following the impeachment of his predecessor, Santiago Pena. The 52-year-old, who has a background in basketball and business, was sworn in before Congress in Asuncion just three days after Pena's removal. Alliana's rise to power comes at a time of significant political instability in Paraguay, particularly following the collapse of Ueno Bank, which has left half of the country's adult population without access to their savings.

Born on February 19, 1974, in Pilar, Alliana has been a prominent figure in Paraguayan politics for years, gaining recognition as both a businessman and a talented basketball player. He first entered politics in 2006, though he faced defeat in the mayoral race for his hometown. However, he later became the governor of the southern department of Neembucu in 2008 and gradually climbed the political ladder, eventually serving in the Chamber of Deputies from 2013 to 2023.

Alliana's political career has been marked by both personal and professional challenges. His brother, Rodolfo "Pili" Alliana, was kidnapped and murdered in 2003, a crime believed to have been committed to fund a cigarette smuggling operation. Alliana himself battled leukemia in 2019, undergoing chemotherapy again in 2021. Despite these setbacks, he persevered, leading the Colorado Party and serving in the lower house of Congress before his recent appointment as vice-president.

Relations between Alliana and former president Horacio Cartes, the country's most influential political operator, have been complex. While Cartes once praised Alliana and encouraged him to run for president, their bond eventually weakened, leading to Cartes withdrawing his support for Alliana's presidential aspirations. Nevertheless, Alliana remains a strong contender for the presidency, inspiring confidence among political observers who view him as a potential successor to the ruling party.