President Ollanta Humala called on Thursday for the consolidation of democracy in Paraguay, as his counterpart in that South American nation faces a political crisis and impeachment proceedings.
Humala said that South American leaders are discussing the matter and that they plan to issue a statement on the political developments in Paraguay, state news agency Andina reported.
“We think that it is important to consolidate democracy there and that there be no agitation,” Humala was reported saying.
The statement from regional leaders is expected to come from the Union of South American Nations, known as Unasur, or the South American trade group Mercosur.
“My personal opinion is the affirmation of democracy and relations with Paraguay, which is a sister nation,” Humala said.
Paraguayan President Fernando Lugo, a left-leaning former Catholic priest, said Thursday in a televised speech that he would not resign following a 73-to-1 vote in Congress to support his impeachment.
A vote is now to be held in Paraguay’s Senate, which is controlled by political opponents of Lugo.
Lugo is accused of mismanagement following a violent clash between police and squatters. At least 17 people were killed, including six police officers and 11 squatters, during the confrontation following the attempt by police to remove the individuals from a privately-owned farm.
