Guatemala: resolution on the actions against the electoral process

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.

Distinguished ambassadors, representatives of the Member States and permanent observers, Mr. Secretary General, Mr. Assistant Secretary General, ladies and gentlemen, on this day the Dominican Republic celebrates the adoption of this resolution in a spirit of solidarity and conviction.

It seems that today we draw inspiration from the timeless teachings of the Popol Vuh: "Let all rise up, let all be called, let not one group nor two among us be left behind the rest." This ancestral precept, rooted in history, reminds us that our true strength lies in union. In times of challenge, such as those now being faced, it is crucial that the unity of this Permanent Council make us more powerful and resilient. Together, with the adoption of this resolution, we reaffirm our unbreakable commitment to the principles of justice and democracy.

Thus, we wish to express our firm support for the resolution adopted in relation to the current situation in Guatemala. But, dear colleagues, this support is not only an act of regional solidarity; it is also an expression of our unbreakable commitment to the principles of democracy, justice and respect for human rights, values we consider fundamental to peaceful coexistence and the integral development of our nations.

The situation in Guatemala, marked by actions perceived as a challenge to the rule of law and the democratic process, urges us to reflect deeply on the fragility of institutions and the imperative need to safeguard them. On seeing the recent actions of the Public Prosecutor's Office of Guatemala in its investigations against President-elect Bernardo Arévalo, a series of concerns arise that point to serious failings in logical reasoning and in the application of fundamental principles.

Beyond the search for legitimate justice, we must recognize that these actions, far from being a show of firmness or strength, appear to be marked by a notable lack of rigor in the charging of serious crimes. Instead of reflecting an impartial and equitable application of the law, these proceedings more closely resemble a persecution directed against political adversaries. This situation not only undermines confidence in institutions; it also distorts the principle of justice, essential in every solid and resilient democracy.

The construction of official narratives without a solid basis in evidence is also a cause for concern. The principle of the presumption of innocence appears to have been ignored. The arguments and hypotheses not only lack the logical coherence required for a fair accusation; they are also perceived as politicized rather than based on facts and conclusive proof.

Moreover, the way in which various figures have been drawn into these proceedings would strike any keen observer as a distortion of the purpose of the law. Instead of being an instrument to protect rights and promote justice, the law can easily become a tool for charging at political opponents or for irresponsibly casting doubt on the elections.

This biased application of the law is extremely alarming. It is crucial that every proceeding adhere to the highest standards of integrity and objectivity. Any deviation compromises not only the credibility of institutions but also public confidence in the justice system.

In short, logic and justice appear to have been sacrificed for the sake of political convenience. The effect on the collective conscience may be a loss of public confidence in authority that will be hard to repair in the short term. This represents a challenge not only for Guatemala, but for those of us who believe in democracy and in an impartial judicial system.

It is imperative to return to the path of reason and justice in order to guarantee respect for human rights and the strengthening of democracy. For when the institutions called upon to protect justice and democratic values are weakened, not only is the course of a nation altered; the very fabric of our coexistence is put at risk.

Mr. Chair, for us, democracy is not a mere mechanism of government; it is the music of freedom, the poetry of self-government and the narrative that allows a people to write its own destiny. In that sense, the Dominican Republic, mindful of its history and of its own democratic challenges, understands the importance of defending these principles not only within our borders but throughout our region. In supporting this resolution, we reaffirm our conviction that respect for democratic processes, including a transparent and legitimate transfer of power, is essential for the stability and progress of Guatemala and, by extension, of the entire region.

It is our duty, as Member States of the Organization of American States, to advocate respect for the will of the Guatemalan people expressed at the polls. We are here today not only as representatives of our nations, but as guardians of democratic ideals: every voice deserves to be heard, every vote counted and every person respected within the framework of a functioning democracy.

We know that the sovereignty of a State is sacred, but it is not a shield for evading international responsibilities. When sovereignty is used to justify antidemocratic actions, not only is the spirit of the international order betrayed, but also the trust of the people.

The resolve of this Permanent Council in adopting this resolution is a sign that, as a community of nations, we have shared interests and a collective responsibility in the maintenance of democracy and respect for human rights in our region.

To conclude, the struggle for democracy in the Dominican Republic is a testimony to the power of the people and to resistance against oppression. Our history is a reminder that, although the road to freedom may be long, the light of democracy is never completely extinguished. The position of the Dominican Republic in this Permanent Council is rooted in our own experience as a nation, an experience that teaches us that the struggle for democracy is continuous and reminds us that our region longs for a future in which justice and freedom guide our actions.

The Dominican Republic will remain vigilant and committed to supporting Guatemala on its path toward a more solid and resilient democracy.

Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.