Review of Guatemala’s disputed presidential election concludes amid international criticism

Electoral authorities and political parties’ prosecutors in Guatemala have concluded the review of the June presidential election results, following a judicial order and facing international criticism.

The Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) confirmed the completion of the scrutiny hearings, with the last department, Guatemala City, concluding the recount.

TSE President Irma Palencia stated that the difference between the previously disclosed TSE data and the review results is minimal.

However, the TSE still needs to review the reports and set an official announcement date for the election results.

The recount was initiated after the Constitutional Court (CC) accepted a provisional appeal from nine right-wing parties that contested the TSE’s published results.

According to the TSE count, Sandra Torres emerged as the leading candidate, followed by Bernardo Arévalo, in a surprising outcome.

The decision of the Constitutional Court drew criticism from various entities, including the United States, the European Union (EU), the Organization of American States (OAS), Brazil, local academic organizations, the Catholic Church, and human rights groups.

Indigenous leaders in Guatemala have called for respect for the election results and warned of potential mobilization if electoral matters continue to be handled solely through the judicial courts.

Indigenous people comprise 42% of Guatemala’s population, totaling 17.6 million.