Resultados del estado de Prevención y avances en acciones de seguridad en #LaRondaGt.

Press Conference Overview

Introduction and Welcome

• The press conference is held at the National Palace of Culture, welcoming attendees and emphasizing the importance of the information to be shared.

• Carina García, Secretary of Social Communication for the Presidency, addresses the press, marking this as the first presidential round of March.

Format and Structure

• The session allows for more time for questions than usual due to requests from journalists; typically limited by the President's schedule.

• Journalists are encouraged to ask one or two questions each to maximize participation during a 40-minute Q&A segment.

Current Issues in Governance

Judicial Selection Process

• President Bernardo Arevalo is introduced; discussions focus on critical issues regarding upcoming elections for judicial authorities.

• The Executive branch will begin reviewing candidates for key judicial positions, including those in the Constitutional Court and Supreme Court.

Call for Accountability

• A call is made to both Congress and the Supreme Court to prioritize national interests in their decision-making processes regarding justice reforms.

Security Measures and Achievements

State of Emergency

• The current state of emergency has been ongoing for fifteen days, aimed at combating organized crime and violence effectively.

Crime Reduction Successes

• Notable achievements include a significant reduction in homicide rates—the lowest seen in 25 years—attributed to strategic law enforcement operations.

Operational Highlights

• Over 1,500 security operations have been conducted recently, disrupting criminal organizations' control over territories through dismantling illegal surveillance systems.

Impact on Criminal Activity

• More than 7,000 criminals have been apprehended within two months as part of these intensified security measures.

New Security Measures and Strategies

Implementation of Territorial Presence

• The government has decided to maintain a territorial presence to protect the population from crime, enhancing operational intelligence and pressure on organized crime.

• A new state of prevention will be established starting tomorrow to continue implementing effective operational strategies.

Construction of Maximum Security Prison

• Plans for constructing a maximum security prison in Isabel are set to begin shortly, addressing past issues with the penitentiary system's loss of control by the state.

• This initiative marks a shift from theoretical discussions to tangible actions that will involve design and construction efforts.

Strategic Developments in Crime Control

• The strategy initiated in Escuintla with Plan Centinela is evolving, including an expanded state of prevention aimed at clear objectives such as dismantling gang connections and controlling prisons.

• Efforts focus on combating gangs on the streets to ensure family safety, with visible changes expected in areas where these projects are implemented.

Visible Changes for Public Safety

• Citizens will notice increased police operations on public transport and checkpoints along various routes, contributing to enhanced public safety measures.

• The aim is to eliminate fear-inducing graffiti and restore safe spaces for children and families in Guatemala's streets.

Duration of New State of Prevention

Questions from Journalists

• A journalist inquires about the duration of the new state of prevention; it is confirmed that it will last 15 days, followed by an evaluation period.

Economic Concerns Related to International Conflicts

• Discussion arises regarding international tensions affecting oil prices; currently, there is sufficient supply without anticipated short-term price alterations due to Middle Eastern conflicts.

Changes in Government Personnel

Ministerial Changes Announced

• The decision has been made not to continue with William Cameros as Deputy Minister of Information; he will be replaced by Karen Stephanie from the police force. This change aims at revitalizing technological advancements within prison management systems.

Evaluation Process for Appointments

• The president explains that evaluations led to this personnel change, emphasizing the need for progress in technology-related programs within the Ministry of Governance's responsibilities.

Discussion on Security and Governance Issues

Addressing Signal Blockers and Police Activity

• A question is raised about the new official's ability to follow up on signal blockers, emphasizing the need for continuity in this area after a recent dismissal.

• Inquiry into police reinforcement following a weekend incident involving approximately 30 people being robbed on Avenida Petapa, highlighting ongoing criminal activity in zones 6 and 9.

Evaluating Ministerial Changes and Prison System Challenges

• Questions regarding potential changes within ministries beyond the current vice-ministerial adjustments, particularly concerning prison system improvements to prevent escapes of high-risk inmates.

• The minister discusses his assessment of various vice-ministerial performances since taking office, indicating a need for stronger management and faster program implementation.

Priorities in Crime Reduction Strategies

• The new vice-minister is noted to have clear priorities for advancing programs within the Vice-Ministry of Informatics, leveraging her previous experience in the unit.

• Plans are mentioned for a meeting with police leadership and defense ministry officials to redesign the Metropolitan Sentinel Plan aimed at addressing rising crime rates.

Analyzing Homicide Trends and Criminal Hotspots

• The minister acknowledges an increase in homicides linked to specific businesses previously identified as drug trafficking points, stressing the need for corrective measures.

• Emphasis on maintaining a downward trend in homicide rates since October while addressing violence associated with known criminal locations.

Future Changes in Governance and Penitentiary Reforms

• Discussion about ongoing evaluations of public policy effectiveness by officials leading to potential future changes across various ministries.

• Recognition that penitentiary systems must improve significantly due to their role in fostering criminality; plans include constructing two high-security prisons to alleviate overcrowding issues.

Enhancing Control Measures Within Prisons

• Current efforts involve collaboration between national police and military forces to enhance security protocols within prisons through regular inspections aimed at controlling contraband.

Security Measures in Guatemalan Prisons

Overview of Security Protocols

• The prison system employs extensive security measures, including staggered inspections across different sectors to gradually clean and secure the facilities.

• Cordons of security are established involving the penitentiary system, National Civil Police, and the Guatemalan Army to prevent issues such as escapes and unauthorized material entry.

Infrastructure Challenges

• Current plans address infrastructure damage in prisons, focusing on maintaining effective security while new facilities are being constructed.

Financial Agreements with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

• Concerns were raised regarding a pending payment for agreements with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers that could jeopardize ongoing projects.

• Clarification was provided that Guatemala has met its obligations under these agreements well before the February 28 deadline.

Budget Modifications for Projects

• The government is advancing budget modifications necessary for initiating various projects, with preparations already underway by relevant ministries.

Selection Process for Constitutional Court Magistrates

Evaluation of Candidates

• The president will evaluate candidates who applied to represent the Executive in selecting magistrates for the Constitutional Court.

• There is a question about whether he will consider candidates outside those who applied if none meet his expectations.

Transparency in Selection Process

• The selection process will be conducted privately as per constitutional guidelines, emphasizing direct selection by the Council of Ministers.

Acknowledgment of Legal Professionals

• The president commended qualified legal professionals who submitted their candidacies, highlighting their significant credentials and reputation within Guatemalan jurisprudence.

Corruption Allegations Related to Medical Insurance Program

Investigation into Misappropriation

• An investigation was published regarding allegations that funds from a medical insurance program were misappropriated through suspicious financial movements from China and other countries.

Government's Response to Corruption Claims

• Questions arose about whether the government reported these allegations to the Public Ministry; it was confirmed that a report had been filed and is under investigation.

Legislative Considerations for Constitutional Court Appointments

• Discussion included potential candidates for magistrate positions at the Constitutional Court, indicating ongoing legislative processes related to judicial appointments.

Discussion on Government Actions and Security in Guatemala

Concerns About the Attorney General's Support

• The speaker expresses concern that the Attorney General, perceived as a supporter of corrupt individuals, is losing allies and becoming isolated. This raises questions about her effectiveness and public perception.

Clarification on Government Functions

• A government representative clarifies that the Republic does not have judicial powers to issue arrest warrants; such actions are the responsibility of the courts. This distinction emphasizes the separation of powers within the government structure.

Questions Regarding Security Measures for Detained Individuals

• A journalist inquires about heightened security measures surrounding an individual named Duque, questioning why he receives special treatment compared to others who are detained. This highlights concerns over fairness in law enforcement practices.

• The journalist seeks clarification on whether this special security was warranted based on specific circumstances or risks associated with Duque’s case.

Construction of New Prisons

• The discussion shifts to plans for constructing new prison facilities, specifically mentioning a project at Isabel, raising questions about which companies will be involved given that specialized firms typically handle such projects in Latin America.

Salary Increases for Police Officers

• There is a pressing concern regarding salary increases for police officers (PNC), noting that two years have passed without any regulatory framework established to facilitate these raises despite their critical role in community safety. This reflects potential political reluctance to address police compensation adequately.

Response on Security Protocols and Prison Construction

• The Minister explains that security levels during detentions depend on various factors including the nature of crimes committed and requests from public ministry officials regarding personnel needed for operations, indicating a collaborative approach between agencies.

• It is confirmed that construction of the Isabel prison will be entirely managed by military engineers, showcasing governmental commitment to improving infrastructure within correctional systems. Additionally, there is political will expressed towards enhancing police salaries despite bureaucratic hurdles related to budgetary approvals.

Updates on Government Cabinet Changes

• A reporter asks about recent changes within government cabinet positions and their implications, particularly concerning new governors appointed in various regions like Llevo and Xela, suggesting ongoing administrative adjustments aimed at improving governance efficiency.

Addressing Local Security Issues

• The President discusses existing security plans tailored for each municipality while acknowledging specific incidents affecting areas like Zolola where violence has been reported recently; this indicates an adaptive strategy responding to localized crime challenges amidst broader state prevention efforts.

Presidential Press Conference on Security and Justice

Introduction and Context

• The speaker expresses gratitude for the presence of attendees at the Palacio Nacional de la Cultura, emphasizing the importance of sharing strategic plans like "Plan Centinela" to address crime in specific areas such as Esquintla and Guatemala City.

Opening Remarks by Carina García

• Carina García welcomes the press to the presidential conference on March 2nd, highlighting a focus on security and prevention measures.

• She acknowledges the need for more time for questions from journalists, indicating that previous schedules have limited this opportunity.

Engagement with Journalists

• García mentions that today’s session will allow for approximately 40 minutes of questions, encouraging journalists to organize themselves to maximize participation.

Address by President Bernardo Arevalo

• President Arevalo is invited to speak, marking a critical moment in discussing future judicial authority renewals amid ongoing electoral processes.

Judicial Selection Process

• The president discusses upcoming decisions regarding selections for key judicial positions, including the Constitutional Court and Supreme Court of Justice. He emphasizes transparency and public interest in these decisions.

Call for Accountability

• Arevalo calls upon both the Supreme Court and Congress to prioritize national interests over individual agendas during this crucial selection process.

State of Emergency Measures

• The president notes that Guatemala has been under a state of emergency for two weeks, which has facilitated strategies against organized crime and violence.

Achievements in Crime Reduction

• He highlights significant successes in reducing homicide rates—an 8% decrease attributed to effective law enforcement strategies targeting gang operations.

Disruption of Criminal Operations

• A notable achievement includes dismantling nearly 70 illegal surveillance cameras used by criminal organizations, which undermined their control over territories.

Impactful Security Operations

• Over 1,500 security operations have been conducted recently, directly impacting community safety and family well-being across various neighborhoods.

Arrest Statistics

• The government reports over 7,000 arrests related to criminal activities within two months as part of efforts to restore order and diminish gang influence.

New Security Measures and Strategies in Guatemala

Overview of New Security Initiatives

• The government has decided to maintain territorial presence to protect citizens from crime, enhance operational intelligence, and sustain pressure on organized crime through ongoing operations.

• A new state of prevention will be established starting tomorrow, aimed at implementing effective operational strategies that have shown clear results.

• This marks a new phase in security efforts, building on previous strategies initiated in Escuintla with the Centinela plan and expanding the state of prevention.

Objectives of the New Strategy

• Key objectives include dismantling connections between gang leaders and their gangs, controlling prisons to prevent them from becoming centers for criminal planning, and combating street gangs to ensure family safety.

• Citizens will notice increased security measures such as public transport checks and verification controls along various routes, enhancing community protection.

Community Impact and Visibility

• Families will see significant improvements in safety as initiatives are rolled out; children can reclaim public spaces without fear.

Duration and Evaluation of State of Prevention

• The newly announced state of prevention will last for 15 days, after which an evaluation will take place to assess its effectiveness.

Economic Concerns Related to International Conflicts

• Questions arise regarding potential economic impacts due to international conflicts affecting oil prices; however, current supplies remain stable with no immediate price alterations expected.

Changes in Government Personnel

• The Minister of Governance has been replaced by Karen Stephanie following evaluations indicating a need for renewed momentum within the ministry's technological control programs.

• This change is part of broader assessments conducted since taking office, focusing on improving management efficiency across various departments.

Discussion on Security and Governance

Addressing Signal Blockers and Police Activity

• The speaker raises concerns about the continuity of efforts regarding signal blockers following a recent ministerial dismissal, questioning how the new official will ensure progress in this area.

• A significant incident involving a robbery affecting approximately 30 individuals is mentioned, prompting inquiries about strengthening police activities in response to ongoing criminal incidents in specific zones.

Evaluating Ministerial Changes and Prison System Challenges

• Questions are posed regarding potential changes within ministries beyond the current vice-ministerial adjustments, particularly focusing on public safety and prison management.

• The speaker emphasizes the need for a more vigorous approach to managing programs within the Ministry of Governance, indicating that previous efforts were insufficient given the urgency of circumstances.

New Leadership and Priorities in Information Technology

• The newly appointed vice-minister is noted to have prior experience in information technology, which may facilitate better program advancement within her department. This change aims to address previously slow progress.

• Despite some advancements being acknowledged, there remains a call for increased momentum in addressing crime rates and improving security measures across urban areas.

Crime Trends and Strategic Responses

• A meeting with police leadership is planned to redesign strategies aimed at reducing rising crime rates, specifically targeting locations experiencing spikes in violent incidents such as homicides and robberies.

• The discussion highlights ongoing issues with certain businesses linked to drug trafficking that continue to operate despite previous interventions, necessitating further analysis and corrective actions from law enforcement agencies.

Future Changes in Government Structure

• Anticipation of additional changes within various ministries is expressed, emphasizing continuous evaluation of public policy effectiveness by officials as part of governance improvement efforts.

Reforming the Penitentiary System

• Concerns are raised about the inadequacies of the current penitentiary system contributing to national crime rates; plans for constructing high-security prisons aim to alleviate overcrowding issues while enhancing control over dangerous inmates are discussed.

• Ongoing collaboration between civil police forces and military units is highlighted as a strategy for maintaining order within prisons through consistent inspections aimed at preventing contraband circulation among inmates.

Security Measures in Guatemalan Prisons

Overview of Security Protocols

• The prison system employs extensive security measures, including staggered searches across different sectors to gradually eliminate contraband and maintain order.

• Cordons of security are established involving the penitentiary system, National Civil Police, and the Guatemalan Army to prevent issues such as escapes and the smuggling of materials.

Infrastructure and Reconstruction Efforts

• Current plans focus on maintaining effective security while reconstructing damaged prison infrastructure to ensure safety during transitions.

• Clarification was provided regarding agreements with U.S. Army engineers, emphasizing that Guatemala has met its financial obligations for ongoing projects.

Budget Modifications and Project Funding

• The government is advancing in budget modifications necessary for initiating various projects, with a commitment to fulfill financial responsibilities by mid-May.

• A specific project mentioned involves a funding allocation of $100 million aimed at enhancing prison conditions.

Judicial Appointments and Transparency

Selection Process for Constitutional Court Magistrates

• The president will select magistrates representing the executive branch before the Constitutional Court, evaluating submitted profiles starting this week.

• Questions arose about whether only applicants who submitted their candidacies would be considered or if others could be chosen based on merit.

Commitment to Transparency in Selection

• The selection process will adhere strictly to constitutional guidelines, conducted through a direct selection by the Council of Ministers.

• The president expressed gratitude towards candidates who trust the executive with their applications, highlighting their qualifications as beneficial for judicial appointments.

Corruption Allegations Related to Medical Insurance Program

Investigation into Misappropriated Funds

• An investigation was published regarding allegations that funds from a medical insurance program were misappropriated through suspicious financial movements from China among other countries.

Government's Response to Corruption Claims

• The president confirmed previous denunciations made against this program due to its potential for corruption and stated that investigations are ongoing within the Ministry of Public Affairs.

Legislative Decisions on Judicial Profiles

• Discussions included potential candidates for magistrate positions in Congress; however, decisions ultimately rest with legislative bodies rather than executive influence.

Government Accountability and Security Measures

Concerns Regarding the Attorney General's Isolation

• The speaker highlights that the Attorney General is becoming increasingly isolated, lacking support from friends or allies within the government.

• There are concerns about potential actions by the government to prevent individuals from fleeing the country or seeking asylum in embassies.

Judicial Authority and Government Limitations

• The speaker emphasizes that the government cannot act as a judicial entity, stating that issuing arrest warrants falls under the jurisdiction of the courts, not the Republic's government.

Questions on Security for Detained Individuals

• A journalist questions why there was heightened security during an arrest over the weekend, specifically regarding an individual named Duque, suggesting it was unusually difficult to request an interview with him.

• The journalist expresses concern about special treatment for certain detainees compared to others who are arrested regularly.

Construction of New Prisons

• Inquiry into which companies will be involved in constructing new prison facilities, particularly one in Isabel, noting that specialized firms typically handle such projects rather than general contractors.

Salary Increases for Police Officers

• The journalist raises issues regarding delayed salary increases for police officers (PNC), questioning whether there is political will to address this after two years without a regulatory framework for pay adjustments.

Response from Minister of Governance

Security Protocol Justifications

• The Minister explains that security measures during arrests depend on various factors including the profile of individuals and their criminal history, indicating these decisions are influenced by requests from public ministry officials rather than being unilateral actions by his office.

Prison Construction Plans

• It is confirmed that construction of the Isabel prison will be entirely managed by military engineers without external contracting firms involved. This project is expected to commence shortly.

Commitment to Police Salary Improvements

• The Minister asserts a strong political commitment exists within the government to improve police salaries; however, he notes that progress depends on technical assessments from budgetary departments before any regulations can be finalized and approved.

Changes in Government Cabinet

Recent Appointments and Changes Explained

• A journalist queries about recent changes in cabinet positions including new governors appointed in Xela and San Marcos, seeking clarification on reasons behind these shifts within governmental roles.

Implementation of Security Plans

• Discussion includes ongoing implementation of security plans like "Sentinela" across various regions including Guatemala City and Escuintla while addressing incidents related to security challenges faced previously in areas like Zolola due to group activities affecting citizens' safety.

Security Plans in Zolola and Criminality Dynamics

Overview of Security Strategies

• The president discusses specific security plans for Zolola aimed at reducing violence, emphasizing the need for a tailored approach based on local criminality assessments.

• Plans like "Plan Centinela" are designed to address areas with high crime rates, adapting strategies according to the level of criminal activity in different municipalities.

Adaptability of Crime Strategies

• The concept of crime displacement is introduced, likening it to a balloon effect where pressure in one area causes crime to shift elsewhere. This necessitates flexible security strategies that can adapt to changing criminal patterns.

• Local police stations must be reinforced and renewed as part of ongoing evaluations and adaptations within government operations to effectively respond to emerging challenges.

Governmental Changes and Evaluations

• Cabinet changes and adjustments among high-ranking officials are normal within democratic governance, reflecting continuous evaluation processes aimed at improving responses to societal challenges.

Selection Process for Constitutional Court Magistrates

Criteria for Selection

• The president addresses questions regarding the selection criteria for magistrates of the Constitutional Court, highlighting the importance of including a "finiquito" document during candidate evaluations.

• A profile outlining essential characteristics required from candidates was published alongside invitations, focusing on demonstrated commitment to justice and integrity.

Transparency Concerns

• Questions arise about media access to candidate files; however, the president clarifies that there will be no public review process as selections follow constitutional procedures established by the council of ministers.

Controversy Surrounding Consuelo Porras' Candidacy

Public Sentiment on Re-nomination

• The president expresses strong disapproval regarding Consuelo Porras' re-nomination for judicial positions, labeling it a mockery towards Guatemalan citizens due to unmet promises related to her previous tenure.

Press Conference on Security Matters

Introduction and Context

• The press conference is initiated by the president, with journalist Eduardo Perea set to ask questions directed at the Minister of Governance and the Minister of Defense.

Questions Regarding New Vice Minister's Expertise

• Journalist Perea inquires about the qualifications of the new vice minister concerning security issues, specifically her background in relevant companies and legal experience.

• The response highlights that the new vice minister is a lawyer with a master's degree in constitutional law and has judicial experience, including work in Chiquimula.

Discussion on Ministry Programs

• The minister mentions having discussed various programs within the Ministry of Governance with the new vice minister prior to her appointment, indicating her familiarity with necessary initiatives.

• Emphasis is placed on efficiency in management as crucial for advancing ministry programs effectively.

Importance of State of Prevention

• The Minister of Defense expresses gratitude towards police agents who graduated as paratroopers, emphasizing their growing capabilities within public security forces.

• He reiterates that maintaining a state of prevention aligns with President’s vision for democratic security while respecting human rights.

Strategy for Sustained Security Efforts

• A sustained security strategy is deemed essential rather than limited by time or geography; this approach aims to enhance coordination among security forces.

• Recognition is given to soldiers and police agents actively working on the ground, reinforcing their role in implementing security strategies effectively.

Conclusion and Closing Remarks

• The session concludes without further questions from journalists. Appreciation is expressed towards media representatives for their attendance at this press conference.