Presidente presenta Segundo Informe Presidencial en Sesión Solemne del Congreso de la República.

Guatemala's Legislative Session Overview

Introduction to the Event

• Amigos de Guatemala TV presents a session from the Palacio Legislativo, featuring Vice President Karen Herrera and President Fernando Arevalo discussing the second harvest initiative, "Siembra Florece."

Presidential Report Announcement

• The session marks the presentation of the 2025 presidential report by President Arevalo, with formal honors being conducted at the Congress building.

Attendees and Dignitaries

• Notable attendees include:

• Vice President Karen Larisa Herrera Aguilar

• Judicial leaders such as Carlos Rodimiro Lucero Paz (Supreme Court) and Leila Susana Lemus Arriaga (Constitutional Court).

• Members of Congress and high-ranking state officials.

National Anthem Performance

• The agenda proceeds with the national anthem of Guatemala performed by a symphonic band, engaging all attendees in participation.

Reflections on Congressional Leadership

Opening Remarks by Congressional Leader

• The president of Congress expresses gratitude for serving Guatemala responsibly over two years, emphasizing that democracy requires responsible decisions rather than complacent speeches.

Challenges Faced During Tenure

• Highlights include navigating political tensions and attempts to undermine institutions while defending constitutional order and democratic governance. Each challenge was met with actions aimed at strengthening institutional integrity.

Legislative Achievements

Key Legislative Accomplishments

• Over two years, Congress approved 62 new decrees addressing various issues:

• Law on Competition: Aims to create fair markets and protect consumers.

• Credit Card Law: Protect users from excessive interest charges.

• Anti-Gang Law: Strengthens law enforcement against organized crime.

• Priority Infrastructure Law: Facilitates strategic infrastructure development for economic growth.

• Public-Private Partnership Law: Encourages collaboration for infrastructure projects.

Commitment to Democratic Principles

• Emphasizes that public office is a responsibility rather than a privilege; leadership should focus on institutional integrity rather than personal or party interests. This commitment is crucial for maintaining democratic values in Guatemala.

Congress of the Republic of Guatemala: Opening Remarks and Legislative Elections

Importance of Citizen Engagement

• The Congress opens its doors to the Guatemalan people, aiming to listen to their voices and demands through civilized dialogue rather than violent protests. This initiative promotes a policy of an open Parliament that encourages genuine citizen participation.

Acknowledgment of Responsibilities

• Recognition is given to fellow deputies, emphasizing that each seat represents a citizen's voice, hope, and responsibility. Gratitude is expressed for maintaining high-level dialogue and debate within legal frameworks, honoring the trust placed by the citizens of Guatemala.

Commitment to Democratic Principles

• Before handing over leadership, there is a strong conviction that the Congress will continue as a space for dialogue and democratic control while defending the constitution. The speaker pledges ongoing service with honor and transparency in representing Guatemalan interests.

Election of New Board Members

• Announcement regarding Agreement No. 9-2025 which declares the election of the Board for legislative period 2026-2027 based on constitutional provisions and organic law requirements for electing congressional officials.

Official Declaration of Elected Officials

• The Congress officially declares elected members for the new Board including President Luis Alberto Contreras Colindres and other key positions such as Vice Presidents Neri Abilio Ramos y Ramos, Elmer Josué Palencia Reyes, among others. This agreement takes effect on January 14, 2026.

Ceremony for Swearing-In New Board Members

Oath Taking Ceremony

• Newly elected members are called forward to take their oaths before God and commit themselves to fulfilling their duties with fidelity and patriotic love during their term from 2026 to 2027. They are instructed to raise their right hands during this solemn moment.

Formal Possession of Positions

• Following the oath-taking, formal possession is granted by stating that if they fulfill their duties well, they will be rewarded; otherwise, history will demand accountability from them as representatives of Guatemala's people. Pins corresponding to their positions are then presented amidst applause from attendees.

Closing Remarks and Future Engagement

Presentation of Government Report

• After swearing-in ceremonies conclude, there will be remarks from the president along with information about accessing government reports via QR codes displayed on screen for public engagement through Guatemala TV broadcasts. This highlights ongoing communication efforts between government officials and citizens post-election events.

Congress Inauguration Ceremony

Opening Remarks and Presidential Address

• The ceremonial proceedings continue from the Congress of the Republic, with a request for honorable representatives to take their respective places in the Board of Directors.

• The sixth point addresses words from the President of Congress for the legislative period 2026-2027, Deputy Luis Contreras Colindres.

• Deputy Contreras expresses gratitude and humility in accepting his mandate to preside over Congress, wishing blessings upon all present.

Significance of the Legislative Period

• He emphasizes that the 2026-2027 period is historically significant as it holds the key to Guatemala's institutional future for decades ahead.

• The decisions made during this term will determine whether Guatemala strengthens its democracy or regresses into uncertainty; every vote will be scrutinized by history and citizens alike.

Commitment to Transparency and Dialogue

• Contreras commits to transforming Congress into a space for genuine dialogue rather than sterile confrontation, encouraging collaboration among all political forces represented.

• He advocates for increased engagement with civil society and various cultural groups, stressing that progress requires listening and finding common ground amidst differences.

National Interest Above All

• He urges fellow deputies to prioritize national interests over ideological or partisan differences, emphasizing unity for Guatemala’s greater good.

• Contreras assures Guatemalan citizens that this Congress will operate transparently, welcoming public input as a guiding principle in their work towards a more just and democratic nation.

Conclusion of Inaugural Session

• He concludes with a call for collective action towards national development, invoking divine guidance for wisdom during this historic moment.

Legislative Procedures Initiated

• The seventh point discusses the approval of an agreement declaring the inauguration of the second phase of annual sessions for 2025–2026 legislative period.

• It outlines constitutional mandates regarding session periods and confirms that Congress has opened its sessions according to established legal frameworks.

• Following discussions on procedural agreements, voting takes place with results showing overwhelming support: 136 votes in favor, 3 against, confirming the initiation of legislative activities.

Presentation of the Annual Report by President César Bernardo Arévalo de León

Introduction to the Report

• The annual report is presented by President César Bernardo Arévalo de León, emphasizing adherence to protocol and respect for established policies.

Significance of January 14th

• The president reflects on the importance of this date as a constitutional duty to present achievements and actions taken during his administration, highlighting the trust placed in him by a free and sovereign people.

Commitment to Justice and Democracy

• Acknowledges the ongoing struggle for a more democratic, prosperous, and happy Guatemala, marking 40 years since the constitution's enactment.

Engagement with Communities

• Emphasizes personal connections with communities represented, sharing experiences from visiting families and understanding their aspirations and urgent needs.

Collaboration Between People and Government

• Highlights that government efforts are driven by public input; citizens have provided tools necessary for improving living conditions through collaborative governance.

Educational Initiatives

Addressing Educational Challenges

• The government has listened to parents' concerns about poor educational conditions faced by children, leading to significant reforms in education infrastructure.

Infrastructure Improvements

• Over 10,000 educational centers were renovated in 2025 alone; plans include opening over 500 new basic education institutes while hiring nearly 13,000 new teachers based on merit.

Scholarships for Students

• Implementation of ambitious scholarship programs has begun:

• 175 students awarded scholarships within seven months.

• Additional scholarships being processed across various educational levels including technical training in English and indigenous languages.

Education as a Universal Right

• Asserts that education should be accessible to all rather than a privilege; resources are being allocated effectively to ensure this right is upheld for every citizen.

Housing Initiatives

Addressing Housing Needs

• Recognizes challenges families face in acquiring homes; introduces "Mi Primera Casa" program aimed at facilitating access to housing credits for families.

Impact of Housing Program

• In 2025 alone, 670 housing credits were issued. Plans are underway to increase this number significantly with over 1,600 credits already committed.

Health Implications of Housing Conditions

• Responded comprehensively to health professionals' warnings regarding poor housing conditions affecting family well-being through an integrated development strategy targeting impoverished municipalities.

Transforming Communities: A Comprehensive Approach

Addressing Historical Inequality

• The initiative includes energy-efficient appliances, water filters, family gardens, and social investment programs aimed at improving living conditions in historically neglected communities.

• Over 233,000 families have benefited from these measures, leading to healthier and more dignified living conditions. This effort aims to reduce inequality and enhance state presence in forgotten territories.

Supporting Agriculture and Business

• Farmers expressed the need for capital to improve production; the Tobanique credit program has provided accessible loans to over 500 small and medium producers.

• The government also addressed concerns of workers facing uncertainty due to international tariff changes that threatened their livelihoods.

Effective Negotiation Strategies

• An effective negotiation strategy was implemented to ensure that 70% of Guatemalan goods continue accessing the largest market without tariffs, leveraging a reputation for honest public resource management.

• Guatemala is one of only four countries globally to secure such an agreement, enhancing its diplomatic efforts and international prestige.

Infrastructure Modernization Initiatives

• Collaboration with U.S. Army engineers is underway for modernizing strategic infrastructure including ports and railways, which are crucial for economic growth.

• Investments in expanding ports and airports aim to create a more dynamic economy by 2025, with projected economic growth rates surpassing regional averages at 4.1%.

Financial Milestones Achieved

• In May and October 2025, Guatemala achieved unprecedented financial ratings from Standard & Poor's and Fitch Ratings (Bb+), nearing investment grade status due to improved international confidence.

• Increased tax revenue by 8.7% compared to the previous year allows for continued public investment addressing community needs effectively.

Health Sector Reforms

• The government reorganized public health services responding to citizens' struggles with access; new health posts were established significantly increasing service availability compared to previous years.

• A comprehensive care model was adopted allowing resolution of up to 80% of cases locally while ensuring high medication supply levels across healthcare facilities—improving from just 40% at the start of the administration.

Enhancing Access to Medicines

• Expansion of ProAM social pharmacies added 28 new locations totaling 212 nationwide pharmacies aimed at reducing medical expenses for families; one million children have been served through school health programs as part of this initiative.

Collective Efforts Towards Change

• Achievements cannot be solely attributed to government officials but reflect collective action from diverse sectors within society advocating for institutional regeneration amidst challenges faced by public institutions.

Legislative Support Acknowledged

• Recognition is given towards legislative support from Congress members who facilitated key agreements necessary for addressing citizen needs effectively during this transformative period in governance.

Infrastructure and Security Initiatives in Guatemala

Investment in Indigenous Communities

• In 2025, efforts are focused on investing in social infrastructure for indigenous communities without requiring them to relinquish their communal lands.

• The government successfully secured timely resources to assist families affected by earthquakes from the previous year.

Addressing Security Challenges

• Acknowledgment of significant ongoing challenges, particularly regarding security concerns voiced by community members.

• Notable increase in homicide rates during the first half of 2025 led to a combined strategy involving national police and military patrols, resulting in a downward trend in homicides.

Combating Organized Crime

• Efforts intensified against organized crime, with drug seizures surpassing previous averages by 22.6% compared to the last four years of prior governance.

• Disruption of 148 criminal structures and arrest of 2,800 individuals marks a significant increase (90%) over the previous year due to an influx of over 6,000 new police agents.

International Cooperation for Security

• Guatemala has gained trust from key international partners like Mexico and the United States for collaborative security efforts.

• Strategic coordination with these countries aims at enhancing border security and combating drug trafficking through unprecedented training and equipment support.

Infrastructure Development Amid Corruption Challenges

• Despite obstacles, priority is given to constructing rural roads crucial for improving quality of life and connectivity for isolated communities.

• Recovery efforts have restored 730 kilometers of tertiary routes across 11 departments, impacting mobility for approximately 8 million people.

Anti-Corruption Measures

• The "Routes for Development" program identified unregistered roads in impoverished areas; maintenance provided connects communities with essential opportunities.

• Public frustration over institutional inefficiencies has prompted actions such as opening channels for reporting irregularities and implementing ethical codes across various executive entities.

Legislative Initiatives Against Corruption

• Cleaning up public administration requires collaboration beyond central government involvement; citizens expect accountability from all actors involved.

• Calls for legislative initiatives include establishing a Public Integrity Secretariat and laws aimed at transparency regarding public contracts and whistleblower protections.

Future Directions

• Emphasis on advancing critical legislation like initiative 6593 against money laundering is seen as vital for equipping future governments with necessary tools against organized crime.

Second Harvest Day: A Call to Action

Reflection on Achievements and Future Commitments

• The speaker emphasizes the significance of the second harvest day as a moment for accountability and reflection on achievements, while also reinforcing the commitment to future goals. Despite challenges faced, there is a strong resolve to continue progressing towards democratic regeneration.

Prioritizing the Common Good

• Acknowledgment of the difficulty in making decisions that impact millions today and future generations. The importance of prioritizing long-term well-being over immediate benefits is highlighted as essential for sustainable governance.

Addressing Needs with Empathy

• The speaker urges consideration for those who have historically lacked responsive governance, advocating for empathetic and responsible state actions to ensure effective results reach more citizens. This approach aims to enhance community engagement and support.

Collaboration Between Executive and Legislative Branches

• There is an optimistic outlook on collaboration between the Executive branch and Congress, particularly with President Luis Contreras, to meet public demands for necessary transformations in Guatemala's governance structure. This partnership is seen as vital for fulfilling responsibilities entrusted by the populace.

Looking Towards 2026: Opportunities Ahead

• The speaker highlights 2026 as a pivotal year for institutional recovery crucial for collective development, emphasizing the need to appoint qualified individuals in key political institutions without succumbing to personal interests or ideological biases. Integrity and ethical action are called upon during this critical period.

Importance of Active Citizen Engagement

• Emphasizes that Guatemalan citizens are increasingly aware and engaged in political processes, marking a significant turning point where choices made now will shape future societal conditions regarding freedom, prosperity, or regression into authoritarianism. Citizens' vigilance is deemed essential in holding leaders accountable.

Legacy of Decisions Made Today

• Reflecting on how current decisions will affect not only present circumstances but also future generations’ perceptions of pride or shame regarding their legacy; stresses responsibility in leadership roles given upcoming elections in 2027 that will judge these actions retrospectively.

Collective Responsibility Towards Democracy

• Urges all stakeholders—Congress members and executives—to act responsibly under public scrutiny while addressing national needs collaboratively; underscores that shared futures depend on these actions taken today amidst growing civic awareness about democracy's defense and consolidation efforts.

Conclusion: A Call Not to Fail

• Concludes with a strong message against failure in meeting public expectations; reiterates gratitude towards attendees while signaling an end to formal proceedings at this significant event focused on national progress through unity and integrity within government structures.

Accessing Government Reports

• Information provided about accessing presidential reports via QR code scanning from mobile devices or tablets; encourages transparency by allowing citizens easy access to governmental documentation related to performance evaluations.