The Street Appeal

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Thousands of Indigenous Guatemalans protested in the country’s capital this week in support of President-elect Bernardo Arévalo, as prosecutors attempt to ban his Seed Movement party, the Associated Press reported.

The protesters demanded the resignation of government officials involved in prosecuting Arévalo and banning his party, calling those efforts a “coup.”

The demonstrations underscore the ongoing political crisis in the Central American country following last month’s presidential runoff. Arévalo won that vote in a landslide, but authorities have launched a series of probes related to the registration of his Seed Movement party and alleged fraud in the election.

International observers, however, have questioned the evidence supporting these claims.

In response, Arévalo called on Guatemalans last week to protest attempts to obstruct his presidency, emphasizing the need for unity among various groups in Guatemala.

He also criticized Attorney General Consuelo Porras’ actions and called for her resignation. Arévalo also said he is temporarily suspending the transition process to replace President Alejandro Giammattei.

Porras and her officials are also facing domestic and international pressure for what appears to be an attempt to prevent Arévalo from coming to power.

The attorney general’s office has said that it is only following the law.