The Organization of American States (OAS) has announced the deployment of a special mission to Guatemala amidst ongoing political tensions in the country. This decision was discussed during a session of the OAS Permanent Council, where United States’ Permanent Representative, Ambassador Frank Mora, expressed concerns about recent developments affecting Guatemala's democratic process.
Ambassador Mora highlighted actions by the Guatemalan Public Ministry that threaten the integrity of the election process. These include attempts to revoke the legal status of the Semilla political party and raids on both its offices and those of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal following its certification of election results. The ministry also sought criminal penalties against an official for refusing to execute an order related to Semilla's legal status. Mora stated, "These actions are unacceptable and constitute a direct threat to Guatemala’s democracy by attempting to undermine the will of the voters."
Presentations were made by representatives from various bodies including the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, OAS electoral observation mission in Guatemala, and Inter American Commission on Human Rights. The collective call was for respect towards Guatemalan citizens' voices without interference in elections.
Ambassador Mora welcomed an invitation extended by Guatemala's government for OAS Secretary General Almagro to visit soon. He remarked on this as a positive step: "We congratulate and welcome this invitation, and hope that this visit can take place quickly."
Mora emphasized that democracy should prevail if political processes remain unhindered. He underscored OAS's role as a significant multilateral organization supporting democratic development across Americas nations.
In support of free elections in Guatemala, a resolution co-sponsored by the United States calls upon Guatemala’s government to adhere to commitments under the Democratic Charter. The resolution indicates that any attempt undermining democracy will be rejected by OAS member states.
While agreeing with Antigua and Barbuda’s ambassador regarding tabling this resolution until after Secretary General Almagro’s visit report back is received; Mora reiterated commitment from member states including US standing up for democracy wherever threatened.