Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Phillip Butters Quits Avanza País as Party Moves Toward José Williams for 2026

The abrupt exit follows weeks of internal strain over party organization, financing, control.

Overview

  • Butters formalized his irrevocable resignation with a notarized letter dated December 5, ending his membership and declining his presidential precandidacy.
  • He cited political and personal reasons and said the party lacked basic organization, control, financing and political development needed for a serious campaign.
  • Avanza País accepted the resignation and said it will proceed in the 2026 race, planning to unveil its presidential formula after internal primaries on December 7.
  • Party president Aldo Borrero identified retired general and former Congress president José Williams as the leading option to replace Butters, saying his candidacy could be formalized soon.
  • Tensions had escalated after a protested visit to Juliaca that ended with a police evacuation and as party leaders questioned Butters’ focus and alleged that funds presumed for campaigning benefited his media outlet.