# The Paraguayan Presidential Curse of the White Chevrolet Caprice Superstition links political instability to leaders who avoid the traditional inaugural vehicle. - **Source:** [Clarín](https://www.clarin.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-08 - **Topic:** [culture](https://brifing.si/c/culture) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/9e74fcd6-479f-4011-985b-2c40b6d0929e ## The Symbolic White Caprice The white Chevrolet Caprice convertible has served as the official inaugural vehicle for Paraguayan presidents since 1989. Originally associated with the long-standing dictatorship of Alfredo Stroessner, the car remains a potent symbol of state power. Local tradition suggests that utilizing this specific vehicle is essential for a stable presidential term. ## The Pattern of Resignations In the democratic era, three presidents who bypassed the traditional white Caprice failed to complete their constitutional terms. This recurring phenomenon has fueled public discourse regarding a potential curse. While political analysts attribute these failures to institutional crises, the cultural narrative focuses heavily on the breach of this specific inaugural protocol. ## Raúl Cubas and Security Raúl Cubas, who assumed office in 1999, opted for an armored vehicle instead of the traditional convertible due to intense social tension. His presidency ended abruptly with his resignation during the political crisis known as the Marzo paraguayo. This followed the assassination of Vice President Luis María Argaña, marking a period of instability. ## Fernando Lugo's Alternative Path Fernando Lugo, the first non-Colorado party president in sixty years, chose a military Jeep for his 2008 inauguration. He famously walked to the Metropolitan Cathedral wearing sandals, breaking further from traditional state pomp. His tenure ended in 2012 when he was removed via impeachment following the violent Curuguaty Massacre involving seventeen deaths. ## Santiago Peña's Recent Departure Santiago Peña utilized a black Rolls-Royce Corniche II during his investiture ceremony, deliberately avoiding the white Caprice. His presidency was recently cut short following an impeachment process linked to the Ueno Bank scandal. His departure reinforces the local superstition among those who believe the choice of vehicle dictates presidential longevity. ## Historical Context of Protocol The use of the white Caprice has become deeply embedded in the political theater of Paraguay since the end of the Stroessner regime. While modern leaders often seek to project a new image through different vehicles, these deviations are frequently scrutinized by the public. The car represents a continuity of state authority. ## Sociopolitical Impact of Myths Superstitions regarding presidential success often emerge during periods of severe economic or political turmoil in Paraguay. By framing institutional failures through the lens of a curse, the public narrative simplifies complex governance issues. This cultural phenomenon highlights the intersection of traditional beliefs and the fragility of democratic institutions in the region. ## Future Implications for Leadership As Paraguay navigates ongoing banking and political crises, the legend of the white Caprice continues to resonate. Future presidents may face pressure to adhere to established rituals to avoid perceived bad omens. Whether these events are mere coincidence or symbolic warnings, the myth remains a persistent element of the national political discourse. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.clarin.com/internacional/maldicion-caprice-blanco-cae-presidentes-paraguay-usaron_0_gTXvLsYqtJ.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._