Guatemala's democracy of chickens, rabbits - and locals
Article Abstract:
Guatemala is following a trend common to a number of Central American nations that have experienced civil war, for voter turnout to fall. The Guatemalan Republican Front candidate, Alfonso Portillo, is favored to win, having a higher poll rating than the ruling Party of National Advancement's Oscar Berger. Both parties are from the political right. The economy has been hit by low prices for sugar, coffee and bananas, which are key exports, and the government has also been criticized for the privatization of the state telecoms company. There is concern about the roleof the army in Guatemala, but democarcy could be helped by the emergence of local candidates.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1999
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Another kind of reconstruction
Article Abstract:
A peace agreement has to be implemented in Guatemala, following the end of civil war. The agreement covers issues such as land redistribution, refugee resettlement, the police and armed forces and the electoral system. Some progress has been made, and there will be a referendum on constitutional reform in Feb 1999. Critics argue that the army has undergone insufficient reform, and that the police force is too weak. Human rights workers are concerned that freedom of speech is affected by fear of retribution.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1998
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