Horacio Cartes, a Paraguayan businessman turned politician, is currently serving as the President of Paraguay. Despite facing numerous scandals and allegations throughout his career, Cartes has managed to rise above them and make significant progress in leading his country towards a brighter future. With his extensive control over various industries and a vast fortune, concerns regarding conflicts of interest have been raised. However, Cartes has remained committed to his campaign promises and has successfully steered Paraguay in a new and promising direction.
Quick Facts
- Also Known As: Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara
- Age: 67 Years, 67 Year Old Males
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: María Montaña de Cartes
- Children: Juan Pablo Cartes, María Sol Cartes, Sofía Cartes
- Political Leaders
- Political ideology: Political party – Colorado Party
Childhood & Early Life
Horacio Manuel Cartes Jara was born on July 5, 1956 in Asunción, Paraguay. His parents were Ramón Telmo Cartes and Elva Jara. His father, who was successful in the field of aeronautics, wanted him to pursue a career in the same field. Cartes attended the Spartan School of Aeronautics in the United States and interned with Cessna in Wichita, Kansas.
Career
In 1975, Cartes founded a currency exchange company that later became known as Banco Amambay. However, he became the target of a currency fraud investigation for founding the company under the dictatorial command of Alfredo Stroessner. He spent over four years as a fugitive before returning to Asunción in 1986 and being incarcerated for 60 days during the investigation. He served seven months in prison in 1989 for charges related to the currency exchange company.
By 1992, Banco Amambay had become a powerful institution. Cartes also became a partner at Tabacalera del Este, the largest cigarette manufacturer in Paraguay, in 1994. He has been accused of involvement in various illegal activities, including smuggling cigarettes and drug money laundering.
Political Career
Cartes was not involved in politics until 2008 when he became interested in political affairs. In 2009, he joined the Colorado Party, a right-wing political party in Paraguay. He was suspected by the United States government of being involved in money laundering, according to a WikiLeaks release in 2010.
In 2013, Cartes ran for president and promised to modernize the country’s infrastructure, boost private investments, eradicate corruption, embark on agricultural reforms, and improve international relationships. He was elected president in April 2013 and took office on August 15, 2013.
Major Works
As president, Cartes has focused on addressing the needs of the people and improving the country. He has implemented an emergency program to distribute food kits to the poor, ensuring they receive quality meals. He has also worked to expand the program while discouraging dependency on it.
Personal Life & Legacy
Cartes is married to María Montaña de Cartes and they have three children together. He owns and controls numerous businesses in Paraguay, including the country’s largest cigarette and carbonated drink manufacturing companies. He has re-established relationships with neighboring countries and aims to decrease poverty in Paraguay.
Awards & Achievements
Throughout his business career, Cartes has founded and successfully managed over 25 companies. He served as the president of the Club Libertad from 2001 to 2012, during which the football team won seven tournaments. He also served as the president of the Paraguayan Football Association’s national team department during the 2010 World Cup qualifiers.
Trivia
Cartes adopted the phrase, “Paraguay is Latin America’s best-hidden treasure.”