LAWG Condemns Judicial Coup D’état in Guatemala

“LAWG condemns the Attorney General’s office decision to revoke the legal status of the Semilla political party in Guatemala.” Moments before the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) was set to make an announcement to certify the electoral results of June 25, Rafael Currichiche, current head of the Special Prosecutor’s Office against Impunity (FECI) and sanctioned under the Engel's list for corruption, made the announcement that the Semilla party is suspended.

This move is illegal and a judicial coup d'etat. Article 92 of the Electoral Law clearly establishes that the legal status of a political party cannot be revoked after participation in an electoral process.

Bernardo Arévalo, the presidential candidate of the Semilla party, came in second place and was scheduled to face Sandra Torres of the National Unity of Hope (UNE) party in a run-off election on August 20, 2023. Arévalo is a staunch anti-corruption candidate, and the people of Guatemala made their voices heard by voting him through. The suspension of the Semilla party proves that the Guatemalan government is desperate to maintain corrupt actors in power and has served a debilitating blow to their rule of law.

The people’s choice MUST be respected. To read LAWG’s full statement: bit.ly/44CupZO