Former Presidents' Mission Notes Progress in Guatemala's Judicial Democratization

A mission of former Latin American presidents has concluded its second visit to Guatemala, reporting "important progress" in the democratization of the country's judicial bodies and the strengthening of its prosecutor's office. The delegation, part of the Institute for Climate, Democracy, and Inclusion (CDI), emphasized that these advancements are crucial for Guatemalan society.

Carlos Alvarado Quesada, former president of Costa Rica and founder of the CDI, specifically praised the recent changes within the Public Ministry, Guatemala's prosecutor's office. He noted that the process for selecting the new Attorney General was both democratic and timely, representing a "real change" for Guatemalan society, which he stated is now "breathing more calmly in this area." However, Alvarado Quesada also cautioned that "there are many other circumstances that still need work."

The CDI's second delegation in 2026 continues a dialogue initiated in February to assess the impact of leadership changes in the Constitutional Court, the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, and the Attorney General's office. The mission also aims to monitor upcoming appointments for the Court of Accounts and the Supreme Court of Justice. The international delegation stressed that strengthening Guatemalan institutions requires constant effort.

In its conclusions, the mission underscored the urgent need for continued international oversight of the nomination committees responsible for selecting future judicial authorities. Alvarado Quesada appealed to Guatemalan citizens, civil society, and various local sectors to remain actively involved in strengthening their institutions. He affirmed that the nation, with its pluralistic population, has the support of the international community on its democratic path. Guatemala is currently navigating a cycle of institutional transitions throughout 2026, with completed judicial appointments and pending designations in key financial oversight bodies.