PARAGUAY: DEMONSTRATORS AND PRESIDENTIAL SECURITY

UNCLAS ASUNCION 000399

SIPDIS

STATE PLEASE PASS TO USAID LAC/AA
NSC FOR KIMBERLY BREIER
SOUTHCOM FOR POLAD DAN JOHNSON

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PGOV PREL PINR SNAR KCRM PA
SUBJECT: PARAGUAY: DEMONSTRATORS AND PRESIDENTIAL SECURITY
CLASH IN PEDRO JUAN CABALLERO

REF: ASUNCION 00352


1. On 3/21, President Duarte's security detachment clashed
with demonstrators in Pedro Juan Caballero while Duarte met
with Governor of Amambay Department Robert Acevedo and a
group of mayors and civic leaders. According to press
reports, four people were arrested and several injured in the
confrontation, which apparently ensued when demonstrators
attempted to push past a security cordon.


2. In addition to local concerns, such as land for campesino
farmers and environmental issues, the demonstrators
reportedly protested the presence of U.S. personnel in the
region, asserting that a new National Counterdrug Secretariat
(SENAD) office being constructed with Andean Counterdrug
Initiative funds is going to serve as a U.S. military base.
Some observers maintain that a political dispute between
Acevedo, who hails from the opposition Liberal (PLRA) party
but supports Duarte's anti-corruption efforts, and another
PLRA faction was also at play. Acevedo told the press he
appreciated Duarte's visit and support.


3. Comment: Pedro Juan Caballero is known for its drug
trafficking and official corruption. Governor Acevedo is an
outspoken critic of such illicit activity, and an avid
supporter of U.S. programs in the region. Ambassador just
met with him last week. Local organizations staged similar
demonstrations when EmbOffs and a visiting INL program
director traveled to Pedro Juan Caballero in early March to
meet with Acevedo and visit the site of the new SENAD office
(reftel). In the face of this week's demonstrations, Acevedo
reiterated his support for Duarte's anti-corruption efforts
and GOP programs in the region.
KEANE