Statement by the Secretary General Thomas E. Garrett on the situation in Guatemala 

September 14, 2023 

I am deeply concerned by recent events that could undermine Guatemala’s democracy, which just emerged from a well-contested and officially-certified presidential election.  This week’s raid on the Supreme Electoral Tribunal and the violation of ballot boxes is worrying and, by most impartial accounts, without constitutional grounds.

I urge the government of Guatemala to continue to uphold the law and function in accordance with the constitution, ensure the necessary conditions to allow for a democratic and orderly transition of power, and safeguard the right of the president-elect and vice president-elect to form a government and take office.