Guillermo Caballero Vargas

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Guillermo Caballero Vargas (1 December 1943 – 25 May 2025) was a Paraguayan politician and businessman. He founded the National Encounter Party (PEN) and ran for president in 1993.

Early life
- Born in Asunción, Paraguay, into a political family. His father, Carlos Caballero Gatti, led the Revolutionary Febrerista Party and ran for president in 1968. He was also related to notable Paraguayan political figures from previous generations.

Political career
- Founded the National Encounter Party (PEN) in 1991.
- Ran for president in 1993 with María Victoria Brusquetti as his running mate. He formed alliances with the Febrerista Revolutionary Party and the Christian Democratic Party. He finished third with about 23% of the vote, behind Domingo Laíno (Authentic Radical Liberal Party) and the elected president, Juan Carlos Wasmosy (Colorado Party). PEN emerged as a significant third political force during Paraguay’s transition to democracy.
- Was part of the Gobierno de Unidad Nacional (National Unity Government) under President Luis González Macchi, serving as Minister of Industry and Commerce until 2003.
- In 2008, PEN supported Fernando Lugo’s bid for the presidency, helping end more than six decades of Colorado Party rule.
- In later years, Caballero Vargas criticized Paraguayan politics, saying he had distanced himself from political activity because it was “frustrating.” He claimed Congress was a contest of the inept and that Horacio Cartes and his movement held undue influence. He also said the opposition needed to be willing to compromise for the future.

Business career
- Beyond politics, Caballero Vargas was a recognized businessman. He served as president of Manufacturas Pilar S.A. and was active in the livestock sector.

Death
- Guillermo Caballero Vargas died on 25 May 2025 at the age of 81.