Paraguay, stuck in siesta mode, awaits Lugo's exit

ASUNCION, Paraguay (AP) — Paraguay's congress closed its doors last week for more than two months of paid vacation, showing no interest in giving President Fernando Lugo anything on his wish list, even after lawmakers return to work next March.

Lugo's allies are also giving him the silent treatment. It's as if the entire political system has agreed to take a siesta until his five-year term is over.

Long legislative breaks are common in South America, where most governments shut down for the summer. But Paraguay sets the standard for collective stupor. Most businesses and public offices close at midday, even during relatively cooler months. Students attend classes in four-hour …