Guatemala’s Supreme Electoral Tribunal recently temporarily lifted the disqualification of the Semilla party, to which president-elect Bernardo Arévalo belongs. This decision follows a request for a suspension issued by a judge, a measure which had drawn criticism from the United States and the European Union.
Bernardo Arévalo had denounced the existence of a “coup d’état” plan aimed at preventing him from taking power next January, after his victory in the elections last August. His party, Semilla, is committed to fighting corruption, a major problem in Guatemala.
Semilla’s suspension is not expected to have a direct impact on Arévalo’s presidency, but it could hamper the party’s activities, including financing and recruiting new members. In addition, this limits the action of the 23 newly elected deputies to Congress.
Nevertheless, this decision of the Supreme Electoral Court is logical, because it would be imprudent to jeopardize the validity of political organizations in the middle of an electoral period. This suspension takes effect until October 31, the end of the current electoral process.
The crusade against Semilla was initiated by prosecutor Rafael Curruchiche, following the results of the first round of the presidential election. Arévalo became known for his fight against corruption, in a country ranked among the 30 most corrupt in the world according to Transparency International.
Despite the obstacles encountered, Bernardo Arévalo is expected to take office on January 14, with the hope of implementing anti-corruption reforms and revitalizing Guatemalan democracy.
In conclusion, the temporary lifting of the disqualification of the Semilla party is a relief for Bernardo Arévalo and his supporters. This allows the electoral process to continue in a fair manner and offers the prospect of a government committed to the fight against corruption.