814.00/1206: Telegram
The Minister in Guatemala ( Hanna ) to the Secretary of State
[Received 3:46 p.m.]
21. Department’s telegram No. 15, May 7, 2 p.m. I have explained the Department’s position orally to President Ubico as instructed. He said he would make very clear in his message to the Constituent Assembly that he does not desire to continue in the Presidency and will not do so in opposition to the will of the Guatemalan people. He added that he believed, nevertheless, that the Constituent Assembly and the people would demand that he continue in power. He said it is his understanding that the procedure decided upon by those directing the movement is for the Assembly to make no amendment to the articles relating to Presidential succession but to submit the question of his remaining in power to a general election in which women and foreign residents will also be permitted to vote. He added that the elections would be entirely free and honest. He disclaimed any participation in the movement but that it had universal support.
I made no substantive comment after my initial expression of the Department’s attitude.