Paraguay: Losing presidential candidate demands recount /update 3

Event

The losing candidate in the April 22 presidential elections, Efraín Alegre of the center-left Ganar coalition, has levied accusations of fraud and has called for a recount. Mario Abdo Benítez of the ruling conservative Colorado Party was declared the winner based on preliminary results released on the evening of April 22, with 97.67 percent of votes counted. Demonstrations by both Alegre and Benítez supporters are possible in the coming days, particularly in the capital Asunción.

Context

Current President Horacio Cartes, in power since August 2013, was not eligible for reelection. Benítez is currently set to begin his five-year term on August 15.

No major disturbances were reported on election day.

Advice

Individuals in Paraguay are advised to keep abreast of the situation and avoid all protests as a precaution.