NE Watch Desk
In a delayed but impactful inauguration
ceremony at the National Theatre in Guatemala City, President Bernardo Arevalo
declared his commitment to shielding Guatemala from international authoritarian
forces and eradicating corruption and impunity.
Newly-appointed Arevalo, donning the
presidential ribbon, emphasized the need to fortify institutions against
corruption, cautioning against the encroachment of authoritarianism and the
stifling of dissent.
Addressing the nation, Arevalo voiced
concern over “a wave of authoritarianism, the spread of intolerance, the
restriction of dissent,” highlighting the emergence of new authoritarian
phenomena, particularly the corrupt manipulation of State institutions by
criminal groups disguising themselves as democratic entities.
The 65-year-old former sociologist, Congressman,
and ambassador, who rose from political obscurity to win last August’s
election, addressed the longstanding issue of corruption in Guatemala. His
unexpected victory resonated with citizens weary of corruption in one of Latin
America’s poorest countries.
Arevalo faced multiple challenges to
assume office, including legal obstacles orchestrated by prosecutors closely
linked to the political and economic elite accused of corruption. Despite these
hurdles, he took the oath of office, signaling a new era in Guatemala’s
leadership.
Tensions flared on the eve of the
inauguration as the Opposition-dominated Congress engaged in protracted debates
over the status of 23 MPs from Arevalo’s Semilla (Seed) movement. Accused of
fabricated fraud charges, the lawmakers faced opposition efforts to prevent
their participation. Ultimately, they were accepted, paving the way for the
inauguration ceremony to commence around midnight.
President Arevalo’s promises to combat
corruption and resist authoritarian influences mark a significant turning point
for Guatemala, instilling hope for positive change and a renewed commitment to
democratic principles.
