In a few days following the results of from the First Round of Guatemala's Presidential Elections, the most popular candidate, Jimmy Morales, granted an interview to the Guatemalan Press. His comments suggested that he has eyes on Belize, and he did bring it up during an election cycle. That suggests that Guatemala's foreign policy could become more aggressive, even through the diplomatic channels, if Morales is elected as President.
It did not go unnoticed by persons in Belize where it went viral on the social media, but is Prime Minister Dean Barrow taking notice? He said yesterday that while it is cause for concern, Morales has to get elected first:
Hon. Dean Barrow, Prime Minister
"Let's wait and see. I don't know that he will necessarily win. We will deal with what happens when it happens. Look, he's made at least one statement that is troubling, but I am hoping that if he does win the Guatemalan foreign policy establishment, the Guatemalan political elite and certainly the international community will make absolutely clear to that gentleman that any notion of pursuing their claim in a way that is disruptive of the good relations between Belize and Guatemala, that is threatening to Belize simply will not be tolerated. So, I am sure that we will be able to deal with that situation if and when it occurs."
Since none of the Guatemalan Presidential candidates took 50% of the vote, a second round of voting has been scheduled for October 25. That result will determine who the next Guatemalan President is going to be.
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