Leader’s Senate efforts blocked

Opposition lawmakers blocked an effort by Paraguay’s outgoing president, Nicanor Duarte Frutos, to assume a Senate seat, boycotting a congressional vote to determine whether he can step down early to become a senator.

Duarte submitted his resignation Monday, nearly two months before his term ends. He was elected to the Senate in April, but opposition leaders contend that his candidacy was invalid, saying the constitution bars him from seeking another office while in power.

Legal analysts say Duarte probably will be able to assume the Senate seat after his term ends.