Policy
While thousands of Guatemalans continue stranded in protests against mandatory insurance, the government calls for dialogue.
The passage through km 15 of the Roosevelt road remains blocked by people dissatisfied with the mandatory insurance for third parties. (Free Press Photo: Daniel Samayoa)
In the midst of a day of demonstrations, the Government of Guatemala made on Tuesday, March 18, a call to the dialogue to the sectors that oppose the entry into force of the agreements that establish that every vehicle must pay a mandatory insurance for third parties.
It has been agreed to start tomorrow, March 19, 2025, at 10.30 am, the dialogue tables with actors that have expressed their opposition to the provision established by the mandatory insurance for all types of vehicles, indicates a government statement.
The document adds that this space will allow listening to the different positions on a crucial issue for the safety of all Guatemalans.
However, while the Executive calls for dialogue, other sectors question the implementation of this measure and call to continue with the protests on Wednesday, March 19. Blocks have been confirmed at kilometer 163 of the route to the southwest, in the Mazatenango triangle, and at kilometer 156.5 of the same road.
In social networks, Internet users also call to go to the streets to show their disagreement with the government’s dispositions. In addition, transport unions announced that they will perform a bus caravan in the capital.
The 48 cantons of Totonicapán, on the other hand, gave the Executive five days to reverse. Otherwise, they will take actions.
Likewise, the communal mayors of San Cristóbal Totonicapán rejected mandatory insurance and demanded President Bernardo Arévalo to repeal the agreements, since, if not, the community assemblies will take drastic actions.