National strike announced in Guatemala amid election concerns

In Guatemala, civilian groups have announced a national strike for July 24, 2023.

The strike, promoted largely through social media, is in response to perceived interference in the electoral process, linked by these groups to the country’s historical patterns of corruption.

In a publicly shared document, the organizers emphasized the strike is self-initiated by aware citizens recognizing the critical nature of current times.

The strike’s demands include the resignations of key government figures including the Attorney General, prosecutors, a judge, and the Supreme Court of Justice president.

The move follows a controversial attempt to disqualify the Seed Movement’s presidential candidate, Bernardo Arévalo, from the second round of elections scheduled for August 20.

Arévalo, a center-left candidate, came second in the June 25 elections, which were led by Sandra Torres of the National Unity of Hope. Neither candidate secured a majority vote to claim victory.

Despite the strike call, Torres and Arévalo continue their nationwide campaigns without commenting on the strike.

Arévalo thanked supporters for backing his plans to end corruption, which he alleges drains 40% of the national budget.

Torres, former first lady (2008-2012), pledged to address the country’s issues.

Both candidates affirmed their commitment to the electoral process and called on national institutions to support the Supreme Electoral Tribunal in ensuring a smooth election schedule.

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