Toledo Alcaldes Association Holds Handover Ceremony, Elects New Leadership for 2025–2026

On January 18, the Toledo Alcaldes Association (TAA) hosted its handover ceremony, Qa’xtasink K’anjel. The day is a rather significant in day in the Maya Calendar known as 8 Batz, symbolizing renewal and the start of a new year. Held in the village of Laguna, the event marked the official transfer of authority and knowledge from the outgoing Executive Council to the newly elected Alcaldes and their deputies. Seventy-two Alcaldes and Deputy Alcaldes from Maya communities across Toledo gathered to undertake their roles in the governance system and to elect the 2025–2026 TAA Executive Council. Pedro Teul, Alcalde of Santa Teresa, was elected President, along with six other Executive Members representing various villages, including San Marcos, Blue Creek, and Pueblo Viejo. The ceremony celebrated the unity and resilience of the Maya governance system, with the newly elected leaders pledging to uphold the traditions and collective interests of the Maya people.