OAS urges new Guatemalan Attorney General to uphold independence to strengthen democracy

The Organization of American States (OAS) has issued a clear call for independence as Guatemala inaugurates its new Attorney General, Gabriel Estuardo García Luna. Appointed by President Bernardo Arévalo, García Luna is set to assume office on May 17, stepping into a role fraught with political tension and accusations of persecution against journalists, indigenous leaders, and legal professionals. The OAS Special Mission's exhortation for an "unequivocal" commitment to institutional independence is crucial. It directly addresses the deep-seated concerns about the politicization of the justice system that have plagued Guatemala. The Mission's statement demanding an end to "penal instrumentalization" and "undue criminalization" is a direct response to the alleged abuses of power that have eroded public trust. For Guatemala, the legitimacy of this new Attorney General hinges not just on his appointment but on his demonstrated ability to conduct objective and impartial investigations. The transition from the previous administration, led by Consuelo Porras—who faces sanctions from the U.S. and EU for allegedly undermining democracy—must be orderly and free from delaying tactics. Experts and civil society groups view García Luna as a potentially suitable candidate, given his extensive background within the Judicial Branch. However, the true test will be his willingness and capacity to break from past practices and restore faith in the rule of law, ensuring justice is pursued without political interference.

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The Mission calls for an end to the practices of penal instrumentalization and undue criminalization that have affected justice operators, journalists, human rights defenders, elected officials, indigenous leaders, and civic actors.