Millions Lost in Guatemala Elections
The Guatemalan election campaign, running full speed although it has not officially begun, means a serious loss of millions to the national economy, considering the amount spent by government and political parties.

The Supreme Electoral Court (TES) fixed a $5.5 million ceiling for each of the 20 political parties participating.

However, the party candidates with more economic resources spend much more, possibly spending between one million and three million dollars just on election day, transporting voters and paying for food and salaries.

Money is not the only loss for Guatemala in this campaign, as so far 20 political leaders have been assassinated, 15 days before the official summons to the general election.

The most recent crimes occurred over the weekend in Masagua in Escuintla District, where the local UNE leaders (National Unity of Hope) were shot to death.

Violence has reached such levels that in eastern Jutiapa District and its municipalities, neither UNE nor PP can find anyone to represent them, for fear of being assassinated.

Aware of the atmosphere of insecurity for the elections, members of the TSE asked for a meeting this week with Government Minister Adela Torrebiarte and Defense Minister Jose Cecilio Leiva to create a security system before, during, and after the elections.