This post will provide a detailed list of all presidents of Paraguay and will offer insights into the tenures of the first president, the current president, and the current vice president.
READ ALSO: Presidents That Have Ruled Guyana Till Date
See the List Below.
| President | Years in Office |
|---|---|
| Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia | 1814-1840 |
| Carlos Antonio López | 1841-1862 |
| Francisco Solano López | 1862-1870 |
| Cirilo Antonio Rivarola | 1870-1871 |
| Salvador Jovellanos | 1871-1874 |
| Juan Bautista Gill | 1874-1877 |
| Higinio Uriarte | 1877-1878 |
| Cándido Bareiro | 1878-1880 |
| Bernardino Caballero | 1880-1886 |
| Patricio Escobar | 1886-1890 |
| Juan Gualberto González | 1890-1894 |
| Marcos Morínigo | 1894-1898 |
| Emilio Aceval | 1898-1902 |
| Juan Antonio Escurra | 1902-1904 |
| Juan Bautista Gaona | 1904 |
| Cecilio Báez | 1905-1906 |
| Benigno Ferreira | 1906-1908 |
| Emiliano González Navero | 1908-1910 |
| Manuel Gondra | 1910-1911 |
| Albino Jara | 1911 |
| Liberato Marcial Rojas | 1911-1912 |
| Pedro Pablo Peña | 1912 |
| Emiliano González Navero (2nd term) | 1912-1916 |
| Manuel Franco | 1916-1919 |
| José Pedro Montero | 1919-1920 |
| Manuel Gondra (2nd term) | 1920-1921 |
| Eusebio Ayala | 1921-1923 |
| Eligio Ayala | 1923-1924 |
| Luis Alberto Riart | 1924-1928 |
| José Patricio Guggiari | 1928-1932 |
| Eusebio Ayala (2nd term) | 1932-1936 |
| Rafael Franco | 1936-1937 |
| Félix Paiva | 1937-1939 |
| José Félix Estigarribia | 1939-1940 |
| Higinio Morínigo | 1940-1948 |
| Juan Manuel Frutos | 1948 |
| Juan Natalicio González | 1948-1949 |
| Raimundo Rolón | 1949 |
| Felipe Molas López | 1949-1954 |
| Alfredo Stroessner | 1954-1989 |
| Andrés Rodríguez | 1989-1993 |
| Juan Carlos Wasmosy | 1993-1998 |
| Raúl Cubas Grau | 1998-1999 |
| Luis Ángel González Macchi | 1999-2003 |
| Nicanor Duarte Frutos | 2003-2008 |
| Fernando Lugo | 2008-2012 |
| Federico Franco | 2012-2013 |
| Horacio Cartes | 2013-2018 |
| Mario Abdo Benítez | 2018-2023 |
| Santiago Peña | 2023-present |
First President of Paraguay
Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia (1814-1840)
Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia is recognized as the first president of Paraguay, assuming power shortly after the country declared its independence from Spain in 1811. Often referred to as “El Supremo,” Francia’s tenure was marked by his strong authoritarian rule.
Achievements:
- Maintained Paraguay’s independence during a tumultuous period.
- Promoted self-sufficiency by closing the country off from external influences.
- Implemented significant economic and social reforms to reduce the power of the elite and support the lower classes.
Downsides:
- His isolationist policies limited trade and external relations.
- Dictatorial governance suppressed political dissent and limited personal freedoms.
READ ALSO: Presidents That Have Ruled Colombia Till Date
Current President of Paraguay
Santiago Peña (2023-present)
Santiago Peña is the current president of Paraguay, having assumed office in 2023. His administration focuses on economic reforms and improving international relations.
Achievements:
- Implemented economic policies aimed at boosting growth and attracting foreign investment.
- Strengthened diplomatic ties with neighboring countries and international organizations.
Downsides:
- Faces criticism for slow progress on social issues such as poverty and healthcare.
- Ongoing challenges with corruption and political instability.
READ ALSO: Presidents That Have Ruled Peru Till Date
Current Vice President of Paraguay
Pedro Alliana (2023-present)
Pedro Alliana serves as the current vice president alongside Santiago Peña. His role is crucial in supporting the president’s agenda and maintaining political stability.
Achievements:
- Played a significant role in legislative reforms aimed at economic development.
- Promoted initiatives to enhance education and infrastructure.
Downsides:
- Criticized for his handling of certain political controversies.
- Faces scrutiny over transparency and governance issues.
Conclusion
Paraguay is rich and complexly, shaped by a wide array of leaders each leaving their mark on the nation. From the foundational leadership of Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia to the current administration of Santiago Peña, Paraguay’s journey through the annals of history reflects the challenges and triumphs of its presidents. Understanding this progression provides valuable insights into the country’s past, present, and future.