Paraguayans see Pena as 'ideal' president to boost economy

A seller holds a newspaper announcing Santiago Pena, from the ruling Colorado Party has been elected as the new Paraguayan President, the day after the general elections, in Lambare, Paraguay May 1, 2023. REUTERS/Cesar Olmedo

ASUNCION (Reuters) - Paraguayans on Monday were mixed about the prospects of another five years of conservative Colorado party rule, but hoped President-elect Santiago Pena could reboot the country’s farm-driven economy.

Pena, a 44-year-old economist, secured a 15-point lead over his opposition rival with 42.7% of the vote, cementing another five-year term for the ruling Colorado Party.