Hope for new progress in Guatemala

BY SHELLY P. RICHARDSON

When Alvaro Colom takes office this month, he will be the first president of Guatemala to have won an election primarily through support from the rural population, including the 26 different Mayan groups that constitute 55 percent of the country's population.

Colom, an industrial engineer, who is also one of the few non-Indians to be trained in the rites of Mayan shamans, sees the spiritual and cultural diversity of his country as an asset. In an interview with The Los Angeles Times, he said: "We need to learn to live together .... People see the existence of so many cultures in our country as a threat. But it's a resource and source of strength." These are hopeful words as he prepares to lead Guatemala to greater peace and social equality.

Guatemala's story — the struggle and persistence of its people — is one I've been watching for several years. Guatemala is a deeply troubled country in which even running for office can be deadly. In last year's first round of voting, at least 50 political workers and candidates were killed. So, few would deny that Colom will face obstacles in his new office. Despite past efforts at economic progress, according to the US Department of State, 80 percent of the population of Guatemala lives in poverty. Violent crime persists, especially in the cities. Many people blame greed and mismanagement in high office for the turbulence. And the hard-fought presidential campaign has left some skeptical about the country's future. For others, the new president brings hope that transformation is possible even in a country struggling with drug rings, corruption, and extreme poverty.

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