Sir Ronald Sanders, the ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda to the Organization of American States (OAS)

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Antigua and Barbuda’s ambassador, Sir Ronald Sanders, will be among five ambassadors representing the Organisation of American States (OAS) at the inauguration of Bernardo Arevalo as the President of Guatemala on January 14.

Arevalo’s election occurred on August 20, following a run-off contest with Sandra Torres.

However, the election process has been marked by a series of challenges, as the Public Ministry, led by the Attorney General and a Public Prosecutor, tried to disqualify Arevalo and his political party, alleging fraudulent registration.

Ambassador Sanders, who served as the Chairman of the OAS Permanent Council until December 31, has been closely monitoring events in Guatemala.

He played an instrumental role in overseeing the situation and ensuring that the election process remained transparent and fair.

Last month, he visited Guatemala alongside OAS Secretary-General Luis Almagro for high-level discussions with the country’s outgoing President, Alejandro Giammattei, representatives of the Constitution Court, and Vice-President-elect Karin Herrera.

As the inauguration of the new President approaches, Ambassador Sanders, along with ambassadors from Brazil, El Salvador, Mexico, and the United States, will engage in meetings with various Guatemalan authorities, including political parties, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations.

The goal of these meetings is to ensure a smooth transition of power and to address any concerns that may arise.

Ambassador Sanders expressed his concern that the claims and actions of the Public Ministry might persist after the new government is installed, potentially leading to instability and tension in the country.

He stressed the importance of upholding democratic principles and preserving the stability of the nation, and reaffirmed the OAS’s commitment to supporting democratic processes and ensuring the integrity of elections in member countries.