Guatemala university rector begins second term amid fraud allegations and protests

Walter Ramiro Mazariegos Biolis commenced his second term as rector of the University of San Carlos of Guatemala (Usac) on Wednesday, July 1, under a cloud of alleged electoral fraud and repression.

Protests erupted outside the central campus as students, workers, and professors, part of legitimate resistance movements, demonstrated against Mazariegos's continuation in office. Reports from the scene described the use of tear gas, gunfire, and intimidation tactics allegedly carried out by "shock groups" positioned within the university.

These events echo accusations from 2022 and April 8 of this year, where similar electoral fraud was reported. Critics contend that Mazariegos and his associates are manipulating Usac's Organic Law and other regulations to consolidate power. A recent legal opinion from the Directorate of Legal Affairs, which critics argue serves the "usurper rector" and his circle, stated that a "finiquito" (a clearance certificate) is not required to assume the rectorship. This interpretation, prioritizing the Organic Law over ordinary legislation, is seen by opponents as a tactic to bypass legal requirements.

Further fueling concerns, a majority of the Superior University Council members reportedly have expired terms. This council has been accused of annulling opposition electoral bodies, altering quorum rules for rectoral elections, expelling dissenting students, and changing internal regulations to appoint loyalists. Following his inauguration, Mazariegos reportedly issued stern warnings to any who continue to protest the election, stating that university regulations would be strictly applied.

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Ya se terminó la elección, la campaña. Quien siga molestando con el tema de que ‘la elección aquí y allá’ las normas, leyes y reglamentos se van a aplicar. Lleven ese mensaje (…). Quien siga con esas locuras y fumadas, vamos a aplicar la normativa universitaria y no es amenaza.