Residents of the municipality of San Gabriel in Mazatenango, Suchitepéquez, have taken action to protect the integrity of their local elections. Since Thursday, June 22nd, when the electoral boxes arrived, residents have been warning people who do not reside in the municipality to refrain from entering on Sunday, June 25th.
This is not the first time such a situation has occurred during elections in San Gabriel. Several neighbors recall a similar incident happening in the previous electoral event. They allege that the acting mayor pays residents of other municipalities to vote for him, a practice that is frowned upon in this part of Suchitepéquez.
A tweet by GuaNet (@net_gua) on June 24th, 2023, highlighted the situation in San Gabriel. The tweet mentioned that residents of the municipality have closed the entrance and are only allowing known individuals to enter. Clashes have already been reported due to this restriction.
A blanket placed in front of the entrance to the municipality carries a strong message: “If you do not live in San Gabriel, do not come to decide for the town.” This message has garnered support from various political organizations, who have joined in guarding the entrance every night.
Victor Hugo Casiá Xicay, president of the Municipal Electoral Board, has taken steps to ensure the smooth running of the elections. He has coordinated with security forces to maintain control over the voting centers. There are a total of 20 tables placed in different voting centers. Xicay expressed hope that everything will end calmly.
The residents of San Gabriel are determined to protect the integrity of their elections and ensure that only eligible voters from the municipality have a say in deciding the future of their town.
What are the proactive measures taken by Victor Hugo Casiá Xicay to protect the integrity of the local elections in San Gabriel?
Protecting the Integrity of Local Elections in San Gabriel
Residents of the municipality of San Gabriel in Mazatenango, Suchitepéquez, are taking a stand to safeguard the authenticity of their local elections. Since the arrival of the electoral boxes on Thursday, June 22nd, residents have been issuing warnings to deter individuals from outside the municipality from entering on Sunday, June 25th.
This is not the first time San Gabriel has faced such a situation during elections. Several neighbors recall a similar incident occurring in a previous electoral event. Allegations have been made that the acting mayor pays individuals from other municipalities to vote for him, a practice that is not welcomed in this part of Suchitepéquez.
On June 24th, 2023, a tweet from GuaNet (@net_gua) shed light on the situation in San Gabriel. The tweet highlighted that residents have closed the entrance and are only permitting known individuals to enter. Consequently, clashes have already been reported due to this restriction.
Clearly conveying their stance, a blanket placed at the entrance of the municipality bears a powerful message: “If you do not live in San Gabriel, do not come to decide for the town.” This message has garnered support from various political organizations, who have joined forces in guarding the entrance every night.
In order to ensure smooth-running elections, Victor Hugo Casiá Xicay, president of the Municipal Electoral Board, has taken proactive measures. He has collaborated with security forces to maintain control over the voting centers, which consist of a total of 20 tables distributed across different locations. Xicay remains hopeful that the entire process will conclude tranquilly.
The residents of San Gabriel are resolute in their determination to protect the integrity of their elections. They are determined to ensure that only eligible voters from within the municipality have the authority to shape the future of their town.
The warning from the inhabitants of San Gabriel in Suchitepéquez during the upcoming elections is a reminder that safeguarding the integrity and transparency of the electoral process is crucial. Let’s hope authorities take this alert seriously and ensure fair elections for everyone.
“San Gabriel residents in Suchitepéquez express their concern ahead of the upcoming elections, urging authorities to address pressing issues affecting their community. It is vital that their voices are heard, and necessary actions are taken to ensure fair and transparent elections for a prosperous future.”