In Guatemala, democracy matters more than victory

As Guatemala enters a new political phase with the Supreme Electoral Tribunal's release of the election calendar, a crucial reminder echoes: the integrity of the democratic process must supersede the outcome of any single election.

Recent elections highlighted tensions and tested institutional strength, revealing a tendency in some sectors to prioritize specific political victories over the preservation of democratic coexistence. This attitude, present across the political spectrum, involves questioning or delegitimizing institutions when results are unfavorable, even if these voices represent minorities.

The article acknowledges the real challenges facing Guatemalan democracy, including declining citizen trust in political institutions and a perception that political debate often serves private interests rather than the national good. This distrust requires attention, but it underscores the importance of protecting the core democratic principle: leaders must gain power through free, competitive, and transparent elections.

Furthermore, it is essential that those who lose accept the results when obtained lawfully. The essence of democracy, the piece argues, lies not in the victory of one's preferred candidate but in the acceptance that popular will can legitimately favor those not supported by all. This principle will be tested again in the upcoming elections, which are expected to involve disputes and controversies.

Guatemala's democratic maturity will be on trial. The article concludes by noting that democratic systems inherently possess mechanisms to resolve disagreements and correct irregularities, reinforcing the idea that upholding the process itself is paramount.