Particle.news
Download on the App Store

From Prison, Bermejo Hands 2026 Bid to Lawyer Ronald Atencio as Congress Weighs His Seat

The incarcerated ex-lawmaker, convicted in October of terrorist affiliation, claims the case was designed to exclude him from the 2026 race.

Overview

  • In a handwritten letter dated November 7 from Ancón I, Guillermo Bermejo withdrew from the presidential contest and designated his lawyer Ronald Atencio as Alianza Venceremos’ replacement candidate.
  • The party’s press team confirmed the succession and said adjustments to the presidential ticket and campaign structure are being readied.
  • Congressional leaders said no decision has been made on accesitaria Zaira Arias’s request to temporarily assume Bermejo’s seat, which is under review by the legislature’s legal office.
  • Congress president Fernando Rospigliosi indicated the legal report will guide whether the Council or the full chamber acts on the temporary incorporation request.
  • Bermejo is serving a 15‑year sentence imposed in October for affiliation with a terrorist organization linked to MPCP in the Vraem after earlier acquittals were annulled by the Supreme Court.