From outsider in the polls to winner in Guatemala’s presidential elections: the rise of Bernardo Arévalo

Once an underdog in the polls, Bernardo Arévalo, a well-known politician and National Assembly member of Guatemala, has now emerged as a major surprise in the Guatemalan electoral scene.

Arévalo, also a sociologist and philosophy doctorate holder, unexpectedly challenged Sandra Torres, the candidate from the National Unity of Hope (UNE), defeating her in the second electoral round.

With 99.8% of the ballots counted, Arévalo secured 58.04% of votes while Torres obtained 37.20%.

This outcome ensures Arévalo’s position as the upcoming President of Guatemala for the 2024-2028 term, succeeding the incumbent leader, Alejandro Giammattei.

The Arévalo family has deep-rooted connections to Guatemalan history.

Bernardo’s father, Juan José Arévalo, was the country’s leader from 1944 to 1951, following a revolution against General Jorge Ubico.

Bernardo, born in Uruguay during his father’s exile after the 1958 governmental downfall, returned to Guatemala with his family in the 1970s.

Arévalo began his career as a diplomat, serving in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, eventually becoming deputy minister and ambassador to Spain.

Later, he worked with global organizations, advised at the United Nations, and collaborated with institutes and universities in the US.

In politics, Arévalo was part of the 2015 movement demanding the resignation of the then-President, Otto Pérez Molina.

This led to the establishment of the progressive social-democratic party, Movimiento Semilla.

Although initially a presidential candidate for this party, he later supported Thelma Aldana, who ultimately couldn’t run in the 2019 elections.

As a congressman, Arévalo focused on areas like foreign relations, human rights, and security.

Ideologically, he aligns as a moderate left-wing candidate, prioritizing anti-corruption efforts by proposing a National Anti-Corruption System.

He also plans to address security issues and create jobs through public investments.

After his electoral triumph, Arévalo assured Guatemalans, including his opponent, of his commitment to their rights and well-being, pledging inclusive progress for the nation.