Since 1993, Paraguay has had a constitutional democracy.
Explanation:
General Alfredo Stroessner took power in May 1954. Chosen to complete the unexpired term of his predecessor, he was reelected president six times, governing almost continuously under the state of siege provision of the Constitution, with the support of the military and of the Colorado Party. During the 34 years of Stroessner's rule, political liberties were severely limited, and opponents of the regime were systematically tortured, harassed and persecuted under the banner of national security and anti-communism. Although a 1967 constitution gave institutional legitimacy to Stroessner, Paraguay was progressively isolated from the world community.
On February 3, 1989, a coup d'etat led by General Andres Rodriguez against Alfredo Stroessner took place. It ended the longest dictatorship in Paraguayan history. After dissolving the Parliament, General Rodriguez called for elections on May 1 and announced the legalization of all parties, except the Communist Party.
In 1989, Andres Rodriguez was elected president on behalf of the Colorado Party that also reported the election for deputies and senators. As president, Rodriguez instituted political, legal and economic reforms. On March 26, 1991, the Treaty of Asuncion was signed, an agreement by which Mercosur was created. In addition, the 1992 constitution entered into force, which established provisions for the protection of political and civil rights, the independence of government powers, and the creation of electoral justice, among other institutions.
