Warden Information

Upcoming Elections in Guatemala

American Embassy Guatemala
American Citizen Warden Program

September 6, 2007

Dear American Citizen Warden:

The following Warden Message concerns the upcoming elections in Guatemala. Please share the following information with the American citizens on your warden list, and any other Americans you know, as soon as possible. It should be disseminated as widely as possible within the American citizen community. Please contact the American Citizen Services section via e-mail (amcitsguatemala@state.gov), fax (2326-4655), or telephone (2326-4405) if you have any questions.

Thank you very much for your support and assistance.

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WARDEN MESSAGE

Upcoming Elections in Guatemala

Guatemala will hold a general election on Sunday, September 9, 2007. U.S. citizens are advised that demonstrations and sporadic acts of violence are possible in the days leading up to the election, during the election, and after the election. While most demonstrations in Guatemala have been peaceful, and have not been directed at tourists or foreigners, Americans are reminded that even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent with little or no warning. U.S. citizens should avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place. The use of roadblocks and/or blocking of public facilities, including the international airports, has occurred in the past, and demonstrators may prevent tourists caught behind the blockades from leaving.

U.S. citizens visiting or residing in Guatemala should monitor local media reports and consult hotel personnel and tour guides to see if there is protest activity that justifies suspension of travel. U.S. citizens may also consult with the Consular section of the U.S. Embassy for updated security information.

Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department's web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Public Announcements can be found. Information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States, or, for callers outside the United States and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. The U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City can be reached at (502) 2326-4405.