Global Courant 2023-05-11 19:22:31
The head of the Electoral Observation Mission (MOE) of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Guatemala, Eladio Loizaga, concluded his first visit to the country, ahead of the Guatemala 2023 General Elections and called for the candidates to avoid personal attacks during the campaign.
In a statement published by the OAS on May 10, it is mentioned that during his stay in Guatemala, Loizaga held meetings with the President of the Republic, Alejandro Giammattei; the chancellor, Mario Búcaro; members of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) and the Constitutional Court, as well as representatives of political parties, civil society and the diplomatic community.
The document also indicates that the head of the MOE called for the candidates to base their electoral campaigns on government programs and to avoid personal attacks.
He adds that he also asked that a climate of citizen enthusiasm free of violence be fostered.
“Invites the TSE to continue working to guarantee the proper development of the different phases of this electoral process and the citizenry to actively participate by informing themselves about the campaign proposals,” the document reads.
According to the OAS, the head of the MOE has already installed the technical team that will work over the next few days to compile information on the development of the process, both at the national and departmental levels.
“This team will observe the simulation of the transmission of preliminary results and will visit the TSE facilities in the different departments, among other activities,” it is stated.
It is mentioned that the OAS Electoral Observation Mission, which will be made up of approximately 90 people, and that its head will return to the country in mid-June and will remain until after the general elections are held. This is the 21st Mission that the OAS has deployed in Guatemala.
