Anti-corruption crusader Bernardo Arévalo was sworn in as Guatemala's president in the early hours of January 15 after a chaotic inauguration that was delayed for hours by a last-ditch attempt by Congress opponents to weaken his authority.
The latest in a series of legislative setbacks triggered by opponents underscored the challenges Arévalo faces as leader of Central America's most populous nation, to which he has pledged to bring sweeping reforms and tackle the rising cost of living and violence, key drivers of migration to the United States.
Arévalo won August elections by a landslide and about 9 hours after his inauguration was scheduled to start, he took the oath as president, replacing conservative politician Alejandro Giammattei whose government has been engulfed in corruption scandals. Giammattei skipped the ceremony.
"Our democracy has the strength to resist and through unity and trust we can transform the political landscape in Guatemala," Arevalo said moments after taking office.
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