The re-election of Walter Mazariegos as rector of the University of San Carlos (Usac) has been marked by demonstrations, allegations of alleged fraud and legal resources pending resolution.
This Monday, April 13, at the press conference known as La Ronda, President Bernardo Arévalo referred to the USAC case and indicated that it is still a pending matter.
According to the president, it is important that the renewal of the justice system responds to the appeals and protections that have been presented regarding the election of the rector.
“It is undoubtedly one of the most urgent pending issues that the legal system and eventually the new Constitutional Court will have to observe with judgment and speed, because the Sancarlista community requires prompt responses that provide certainty and protect the legacy of the public,” he highlighted.
He showed his “solidarity, empathy and concern” for the situation in Usac.
According to the president, the defense of democracy is a constant fight and he recognized the “brave” role that young people have in these key moments in the country.
He affirmed that the Government must act responsibly at this time, since it is responsible for ensuring that autonomy is not used as an excuse to allow actions of violence and coercion against students or anyone.
He reiterated the call for the courts to resolve “the long series” of complaints that have been presented at the different stages of the rector election process, so that what happened can be clarified through their decisions.
In the round of questions, the president was questioned about how the Executive has handled the issue of the excavations at Usac by the Ministry of Culture and Sports, which would have led to the closure of the central campus. Arévalo responded that, regarding this matter, there has been misinformation or lack of information.
He said that the request that USAC made at the time for the aforementioned ministry to accompany the work was within the framework of the Heritage Law.
He added that at no time does this agreement between Usac and the aforementioned portfolio for archaeological excavation require suspension of classes, “in no way.”
He explained that the Ministry of Culture signed with an archaeologist so that she commits to carrying out the entire survey, which has no relation to the suspension of activities.
He indicated that Usac was closed without any relation to the issue of the excavations.
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