Experts Back MP Reorganization in Guatemala, Urge Technical Focus

The recent reorganization within Guatemala's Public Ministry (MP), spearheaded by Attorney General Gabriel García Luna, has garnered support from experts and former prosecutors, who emphasize the need for thorough technical evaluations and the reinforcement of critical prosecutorial departments.

The MP announced a series of transfers and appointments on June 2nd, affecting specialized and sectional prosecutor's offices. Notable changes include Raúl Figueroa's move to the Anti-Kidnapping Prosecutor's Office, Alfredo Solórzano's appointment to the Anti-Human Trafficking Prosecutor's Office, and Hassen Coy López's designation to the Transnational Crimes Prosecutor's Office. Cinthia Monterroso was assigned to the Western regional leadership, and Freddy Santos, with over a decade of experience, was transferred from the Anti-Kidnapping to the Economic Crimes Prosecutor's Office. Nelly Morataya was appointed to lead the Special Prosecutor's Office Against Impunity (Feci) but reportedly declined the position and resigned.

Edgar Gómez, a former MP prosecutor and security analyst, believes the changes were expected under a new administration but stresses the importance of basing them on detailed assessments of each official's profile, experience, specialization, and training. Gómez highlighted that different criminal phenomena require distinct expertise, making specialized experience crucial for leading specific prosecutor's offices. He warned that moving personnel without considering their background could delay investigations as teams might need to be retrained or brought up to speed.

Gómez identified corruption, administrative offenses, extortion, organized crime, crimes against life, violence against women and children, protection of journalists and human rights defenders, and electoral crimes as areas requiring particular attention. He asserted that no single prosecutor's office should be overlooked, as each is designed to protect specific legal interests. Alan Ajiatas, another former MP prosecutor and analyst, also commented that the changes were timely.