A wave of political turbulence is rolling through Guatemala and other Central American countries

Central American countries are currently engulfed in a wave of political turmoil that is unprecedented even for a region known for its history of unrest. One country experiencing significant political upheaval is Guatemala, as it approaches a presidential runoff election in August.

Here’s an overview of the political situation in various Central American countries:

Guatemala:

Guatemala is currently embroiled in its most turbulent presidential election in recent memory. The initial round of voting in June yielded an unexpected twist when a relatively unknown progressive candidate named Bernardo Arévalo from the Seed Movement party emerged as a front-runner.

Arévalo has managed to withstand judicial attacks and attempts by Guatemala’s political establishment to disqualify his party. Despite prior efforts by the country’s government to manipulate the election, such as banning several candidates before the first-round vote, Arévalo has persevered. However, this escalating situation has been deemed a threat to Guatemala’s democracy by American officials.

El Salvador:

In recent years, El Salvador has undergone a radical transformation with the rise of its populist millennial President Nayib Bukele. Bukele initiated an aggressive campaign against the Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatruchas (MS-13) gangs, suspending constitutional rights and imprisoning a significant number of citizens. These actions have raised allegations of widespread human rights abuses.

Although Bukele’s tactics initially led to a sharp decline in violence, his elaborate propaganda machinery and populist agenda have sparked a fervor across the region, with other governments attempting to emulate his approach. Furthermore, Bukele has announced his intention to run for reelection in violation of the constitution, and his actions have raised concerns about the gradual erosion of democracy in the country.

Nicaragua:

In Nicaragua, President Daniel Ortega has intensified his crackdown on dissent. In recent years, both regional watchdogs and the U.S. government have raised alarms about the erosion of democracy under the leadership of the Sandinista National Liberation Front. The situation reached a boiling point in 2018 when Ortega’s government violently suppressed protests.

More recently, Ortega has forced numerous opposition figures into exile, revoked their citizenship, seized their assets, and labeled them as “traitors of the homeland.” The government’s tightening grip on power has led to the expulsion of aid groups like the Red Cross, and the Catholic Church has faced a prolonged crackdown, resulting in the closure of the Vatican embassy. As a result, many Nicaraguans have sought refuge in neighboring Costa Rica or the United States.

Honduras:

Last year, Xiomara Castro became the first female president of Honduras, running on a platform to address corruption, inequality, and poverty. However, her popularity has waned as many of her promises for change remain unfulfilled. Concurrently, the government has pursued a harsh approach against gangs, taking cues from neighboring El Salvador, particularly in response to a brutal massacre in a women’s prison in June.

Costa Rica:

Costa Rica, once renowned for its peaceful reputation compared to its neighbors, has witnessed an alarming increase in violence that threatens its status as a safe haven. Homicide rates have surged as the country has become a base for drug traffickers. President Rodrigo Chavez, who assumed office last year, has pledged to deploy more police officers and enact stricter laws to combat the escalating crime.

Furthermore, Costa Rica has faced a significant influx of migrants from Nicaragua, straining the nation’s capacity to provide refuge to those fleeing persecution. Consequently, the government has implemented stricter asylum laws.

Panama:

Panama is heading into presidential elections in May against a backdrop of simmering discontent due to economic challenges, corruption, and insecurity. Any political shift in Panama, given its status as a financial hub, could have global implications.

Moreover, the country has become a focal point for a steady flow of migrants traversing the perilous jungles of the Darien Gap, which stretches along the Colombia-Panama border.

Belize:

Belize is often viewed as a relatively peaceful country within a tumultuous region. Although it was once a British colony known as British Honduras, Belize’s government system still maintains strong ties to the United Kingdom. However, Prime Minister Johnny Briceño has taken steps to distance the nation from the monarchy. Additionally, Belize remains one of the few countries in the Americas to maintain formal relations with Taiwan, amidst China’s efforts to diminish support for the island nation by investing in Central America.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Political unrest in Central America

More about Political unrest in Central America

• Guatemala’s Presidential Election
• Political Situation in El Salvador
• Crackdown on Dissent in Nicaragua
• Challenges Faced by Costa Rica
• Panama’s Political Landscape
• Political Situation in Belize