Guatemala: Between institutional crisis and economic challenges
BY SAMUEL ÁLVAREZ / TRANSLATE BY THOMAS LANG
In recent years, Guatemala has gone through a political and economic scenario characterized by a series of significant challenges that have tested the stability of its institutions and the security of its citizens. The confrontation between the Executive and other State agencies, the conflicts in the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) and the deterioration of the rule of law have generated a climate of uncertainty and distrust in public administration.
Judicial tyranny and the crisis of the rule of law
One of the most critical points has been the political interference in judicial decisions. The controversy surrounding the Movimiento Semilla party, as well as the persecution of judges who have issued resolutions contrary to the interests of the Attorney General, are evidence of a discretionary use of justice.
To this is added the investigation of candidates of the Bar Association and Notaries, with the apparent purpose of avoiding their participation in key union elections for the conformation of the postulation commissions of the next Attorney General of the Public Prosecutor’s Office. Meanwhile, the lack of investigations against actors accused of corruption persists, which deepens the perception of a biased and selective justice system.
PHOTO: SOCIAL NETWORKS
Congress: Between internal conflicts and the erosion of the rule of law
The Congress of the Republic of Guatemala is not escaping this crisis. Currently, it faces internal problems between benches and a board of directors that has disregarded judicial resolutions, applying discretionary criteria according to its own interests. These actions have undermined confidence in the effectiveness of the rule of law, because if the country’s high officials do not comply with the rules in force, what can be expected for the citizenry in general? Instability in the Supreme Electoral Tribunal Internal conflicts within the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) have also exacerbated political uncertainty.
The lack of consensus between incumbent and alternate magistrates, together with questions about the legitimacy of the incumbent presidency, have weakened confidence in the electoral system. This not only casts doubt on the transparency of future electoral processes, but also reinforces distrust in the country’s democratic institutionality.
Guatemala has faced multiple challenges in a context of global uncertainty. Although the economy has shown signs of recovery after the effects of the pandemic, growth has been moderate. Political instability has generated an atmosphere of caution among domestic and foreign investors, limiting the attraction of capital needed for a more dynamic development.
PHOTO: SOCIAL NETWORKS
Despite official speeches highlighting constant economic growth, this is not due to an increase in productive investment, but to two key factors. First, the growth of the state apparatus, which year after year employs more people, and second, the increase in Guatemalan migration abroad.
Remittances sent by migrants have been a fundamental pillar to sustain the country’s economy, which is evidence of its structural fragility. However, with the recent economic measures implemented by the U.S. government, the financial stability of Guatemala and the region is at risk.
Structural reforms to overcome these challenges
Guatemala needs to strengthen its institutions, foster transparency, and promote dialogue between the different branches of government. This is the only way to achieve greater political stability and inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
It is imperative that Guatemala implement structural reforms that reduce social stratification and improve investment in infrastructure and basic services. Guaranteeing the rule of law is essential to generate a climate of confidence that will attract investment and encourage citizen participation in decision-making. Without these elements, the country will continue to face the same structural problems that have marked its recent history, hindering its development and the wellbeing of its population.
On the other hand, radicalization in Guatemala has reached a point at which many believe that only their way of thinking is valid. For these people, disagreement equals sin, contextualization equals treason, and thinking differently equals crime.
Ironically, these people cannot stop talking about human rights and freedom of expression. All they do is defend their ideas. If you don’t think like them, they want you silenced, censured, and oppressed. If you don’t think like them you’re bad, corrupt, and an enemy.
PHOTO: SOCIAL NETWORKS
Local Context
Xela is in a state of anarchy where everyone just does whatever they want. Those years of being “the cradle of culture” are over, confined to the history books.
Anger at rising electric prices is legitimate. Sacándole Brillo a Xela (SBX) has a just cause. Yet it’s worth considering the following: what does it say that people who aren’t from Quetzaltenango, like Sergio Morataya, are at the front of the pack, leading protests against the mayor and council’s capriciousness? Why are all of these people from social media suddenly appearing in Xela? Who pays their bills? Are they just here for the likes? It’s also worth asking why the leader of the opposition isn’t here, letting others suffer the physical and emotional exhaustion.
Samuel Álvarez Morales. Political analyst, member of Visión Legislativa and founder of Voluntarios por Xela.
