United States ready to sanction those who continue attacks on democracy in Guatemala

U.S will sanction those who persist in impeding democracy in Guatemala after the president’s inauguration Bernardo Arevalowhose rise to power was at risk due to the siege of the Public Ministry.

“It is important to remember that U.S used cool tools [sanciones] what do we have to defend democracy, to fight corruption at a global level“, said the United States Under Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs at a press conference on Monday. Brian A. Nichols.

LOOK HERE: Turbulent change of command in Guatemala: “Recovering institutionality will be the biggest challenge for Arévalo”

“We are willing to use these tools in the future against people who impede democracy in Guatemala“added the person responsible for the National Palace, in the Guatemalan capital.

Nichols is part of the North American delegation that attended the inauguration of social democrat Arévalo, 65 years old. The group was led by the head of USAID, Samantha Powerwho announced that the United States will invest $219 million in development programs this year.

Arévalo took office in the early hours of this Monday at National Theatre after nine hours of delay due to discussions in Congress.

In his tortuous path to the presidency, he faced judicial siege from the Public Ministry, which even asked for the withdrawal of his immunity and suspension of his mandate Seed movement and consider “null”The elections he won last year due to alleged electoral anomalies.

Asked by public ministryled by the attorney general Consuelo Porrasconsidered “corrupt” per washingtonfour electoral magistrates were stripped of their immunity by Congress in November to be investigated for the alleged irregular purchase of a computer system.

MORE INFORMATION: France pledges full support to Arévalo to strengthen democracy and rule of law

In response, the United States imposed visa restrictions on 300 Guatemalans for trying to “undermine” democracy, including one hundred deputies.

“Our purpose is to promote respect for democracy and the fight against corruption“Nichols indicated, referring to possible sanctions.

The official noted, however, that those who “change their attitude, they will be able to regain their visa rights in the future”.

Source: Elcomercio

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