26th January 2024

Guatemala has a new President in Bernardo Arévalo despite last minute efforts to scupper the change over. Congress met for over 14 hours in an effort to declare Semilla politicians independent and check documentation of incoming diputados. At five minutes to midnight, Arévalo took office with former President Alejandro Giammattei dropping off presidential material at Congress and becoming the first ex-President to miss the changeover. Three days later, the US removed Giammattei and his three adult childrens’ visas for “substantial acts of corruption”. Legal moves after the inauguration has led to Congress having a junta directiva without Semilla on it but their coalition will lead the legislative branch.

The full publication is available internationally on a subscription-only basis. SUBSCRIBE TO A FREE TRIAL

Photo: JOHAN ORDONEZ/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES