Entérate de los avances en seguridad, desarrollo y lucha contra la corrupción en #LaRondaGT.

Press Conference Overview

Introduction and Welcome

• The press conference, referred to as "La Ronda," is introduced by Karina García, Secretary of Social Communication of the Presidency.

• A warm welcome is extended to the audience from Guatemala TV and various social media platforms, emphasizing inclusivity for all viewers.

Key Topics Addressed

• The conference will cover three main topics: security control, anti-corruption efforts, and transformation initiatives for Guatemalan households.

• President Bernardo Arévalo and accompanying officials are invited to discuss these pressing issues.

Engagement with the Public

Channels for Communication

• An open channel for public communication is highlighted, allowing citizens to submit questions or comments via a digital form at alpueblodignoseleresponde.gov.gt.

• This initiative aims to enhance responsiveness from government officials by addressing public inquiries in a dedicated section starting next week.

Press Conference Logistics

• The press conference is scheduled to conclude the Q&A session around 9:20 AM before continuing with the President's agenda.

Security Measures Implemented

Recent Actions Taken

• President Arévalo discusses significant actions taken over recent weeks in response to public demands for enhanced security.

• A major operation involving the National Civil Police and military was conducted at Renacimiento 1 prison following an attempted extortion by inmates.

Control Over Prisons

• The government successfully thwarted attempts by criminals seeking illegal privileges within prisons during a riot incident.

• Inmates were relocated to specially prepared areas designed with reinforced security measures to prevent further disruptions.

Strategic Objectives in Crime Control

Cutting Off Criminal Networks

• Emphasis on severing communication between incarcerated criminals and their associates outside prison as a critical strategy in combating organized crime.

Results of Security Strategy

• Concrete results from this approach are noted, showcasing effective operations that maintain public safety while targeting high-risk criminal elements.

Commitment to Public Safety

Ongoing Efforts

• Assurance that thousands of families can continue their daily activities safely due to successful law enforcement strategies being implemented.

Future Initiatives

• The government pledges ongoing actions against narco-politics and prioritizes security as essential for a dignified life in Guatemala.

Security and Authority in Guatemala

The Concept of Democratic Security

• The speaker emphasizes that in Guatemala, order is maintained through law, and security is built on measurable results. This reflects the principle of democratic security where authority is exercised without arbitrariness.

Restoring Authority

• The current efforts focus on re-establishing authority previously undermined by systemic capture. Isolation is deemed essential for control, with a firm stance against negotiating with criminals.

Coordinated Actions for Control

• Effective authority requires coordinated actions among various institutions such as the penitentiary system, national police, and military to ensure operational control.

Strategic Measures and Their Importance

• While the state of emergency is temporary, the underlying strategy for inter-institutional coordination and intelligence strengthening will remain ongoing to enhance state presence.

Impact on Crime Rates

• Regaining control translates into increased peace for citizens while applying effective pressure on criminal elements.

Specific Cases and Legal Actions

Case of Marta Castañeda Torres

• The speaker addresses inquiries regarding Marta Castañeda Torres, linked to gang leadership. Her protective custody was initially strategic due to safety concerns.

Judicial Challenges

• Despite strategic reasoning against her return to general population, judicial insistence led to legal action being taken to maintain her protection through constitutional measures.

Results from State of Emergency

Achievements Under Emergency Measures

• Following the declaration of a state of emergency, significant statistics are presented showcasing successful operations aimed at restoring order within prisons and reducing crime rates.

Key Statistics:

• 3,548 police operations conducted; 6 individuals sought for extradition captured; 78 gang members apprehended; 100 extortionists arrested; nearly 3,000 arrests made in total.

Reduction in Homicides:

• A notable reduction of 50% in homicides compared to previous year’s statistics during the same period indicates progress towards improved public safety.

Decrease in Extortions:

• A reported decrease of 32% in extortion cases correlates with enhanced prison controls preventing communication between inmates and external parties.

Future Operations and Penitentiary Control

Continuation Beyond State of Emergency

• Regardless of whether the state of emergency continues or not, joint operations will persist until crime rates significantly decline and full control over prisons is achieved.

Completion of Prison Census:

• A comprehensive census has been completed within Guatemalan prisons for the first time ever. This initiative ensures clarity about inmate identities and offenses committed.

Historical Actions for Public Safety

Commitment to Public Safety

• The speaker emphasizes the historic nature of recent actions taken in the country aimed at enhancing public safety, allowing families to engage in daily activities without fear.

Control Over Penitentiary System

• Acknowledgment of concrete actions being implemented to combat crime, specifically focusing on ensuring that the penitentiary system is under effective state control, eliminating illegal privileges.

Transparency and Anti-Corruption Efforts

• The government is committed to transparency and integrity in public management as part of a broader fight against corruption, aiming to ensure state services benefit citizens rather than a select few.

Establishment of National Anti-Corruption Commission

• The National Commission Against Corruption was established two years ago as a key decision by the government to enhance transparency and accountability within public administration.

Gradual Approach to Combatting Corruption

• Recognizing corruption as a pervasive issue akin to cancer within institutions, the approach involves gradual and sustained efforts to cleanse these entities from corrupt practices.

Accountability and Results in Anti-Corruption

Introduction of Key Figures

• The speaker introduces Julio Flores from the National Commission Against Corruption, who will present significant findings related to anti-corruption efforts.

Evaluation by Transparency International

• An overview is provided regarding how Transparency International evaluates Guatemala's progress in fighting corruption through an external methodology.

Evidence of Systematic Corruption

• More than 400 substantiated corruption cases have been reported since the current administration began, indicating a systematic issue requiring ongoing attention and action.

Strategic Framework for Integrity

Route Towards Integrity

• A strategic framework termed "Route of Integrity" has been initiated, aligning with government policies aimed at establishing efficient and legitimate public functions from 2024 onwards.

Creation of Ethical Standards

• The establishment of an ethics code for executive bodies marks a significant step towards defining principles governing public service while mandating each entity to create probity offices.

Building Networks for Integrity

• A network comprising over 65 integrity offices has been formed, providing support through training and creating collaborative spaces focused on combating corruption effectively.

Implementation of Compliance Systems

• Initiatives are underway that mirror private sector compliance systems within public institutions, leading towards formal results such as ethical codes and extensive training programs for civil servants.

This structured summary captures key discussions around public safety initiatives, anti-corruption measures, accountability frameworks, and strategic plans laid out by governmental authorities. Each point links back directly to specific timestamps for easy reference.

Efforts in Anti-Corruption and Integrity

Overview of the Integrity Route

• The speaker discusses transitioning from a co-opted system to implementing an integrity route that is beginning to yield positive results, emphasizing the long-term nature of this effort.

• It is highlighted that sustained efforts across successive governments are essential to change anti-corruption trends, with public perception being a critical aspect of these initiatives.

Impact on Public Services

• Transparency measures have started reflecting positively in public services, particularly in health, where corruption cases have decreased significantly; four modernized milk banks and over 40 health posts are now operational.

• In education, there has been a shift away from corruption within the educational structure, with significant improvements in service delivery and accountability through new transparency portals.

Corruption Perception Index Improvements

• The anti-corruption route directly impacts citizens by enhancing public service efficiency. International evaluations show significant improvements in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI), attributed to executive leadership and citizen involvement.

• Historical data shows that prior to President Arevalo's administration, corruption levels were at an all-time low. The CPI reached its lowest point at 23 before showing improvement under his leadership.

Sustaining Positive Trends

• In Arevalo's first year, Guatemala was one of only four countries globally to reverse a negative trend in corruption perception. This marked a significant milestone for the nation.

• Maintaining this positive trajectory into the second year is crucial as it confirms effective strategies; Guatemala achieved consecutive improvements for the first time ever.

Future Expectations and Legislative Support

• Emphasizing historical significance, Guatemala stands out as one of ten countries improving its CPI consecutively amidst global trends worsening. Only the Dominican Republic shares this regional success.

• Acknowledging ongoing challenges ahead while expressing confidence in solid foundations laid for future progress; legislative support could further strengthen anti-corruption efforts.

Conclusion: Building Trust Through Transparency

• Efficient legal actions against corruption will be vital for reducing impunity rates. The current administration marks a historic moment for Guatemala’s fight against corruption.

• Ensuring institutions act transparently while addressing fundamental needs will help build trust among citizens moving forward.

Recuperating the State: A Comprehensive Approach

The Role of the State in Social Welfare

• Recuperating the state involves more than just exercising authority; it requires fulfilling its functions and meeting public expectations for basic welfare conditions, ensuring that even remote communities receive concrete responses and real opportunities.

• The Ministry of Social Development and the "Manu a Manu" program exemplify this government logic, focusing on clear goals and verifiable results across all territories. In 2020, eight specific targets were set to guide efforts.

Achievements in Housing and Community Support

• By 2025, under this program, 50,000 dirt floors were converted to concrete, significantly improving living conditions for families in some of the country's most vulnerable municipalities. This initiative included various measures from different state institutions aimed at creating a tangible impact.

• The commitment to expand these efforts continues into the current year, with plans to address needs in remote and neglected areas of Guatemala.

Transformation of the Ministry of Social Development

• Minister Abelardo Pinto emphasized that the ministry's transformation is not solely about increasing coverage but also about redefining its role within state social protection policies. It aims to move away from fragmented assistance towards a more coordinated approach.

• The ministry's new role allows for better identification of target populations through social household registries, correcting inherited distortions and responding effectively when actual needs exceed initial plans.

Expansion of Social Programs

• By 2025, the social bond program exceeded its goal by reaching over 185,000 households—24% more than planned—demonstrating improved capacity for executing targeted social protection initiatives.

• Growth was also seen in community dining programs which served 7.5 million meals—67% more than previous administrations—primarily benefiting vulnerable groups such as elderly individuals and single mothers who rely on these services for daily nutrition.

Addressing Specific Vulnerabilities

• The "Vida" program focused on supporting girls and adolescents who are victims of sexual violence saw a significant increase in coverage (48%) due to budget adjustments and prioritization since taking office.

• Addressing malnutrition is a shared responsibility; however, specific actions taken by the Ministry include expanding nutritional bonds fivefold compared to previous years, reaching over 11,000 families across multiple departments.

Economic Impact Through Financial Support

• The Bolsa Social program expanded from 25,000 beneficiaries to over 50,000 families by 2025 while increasing financial support per family from $250 to $325 due to approved budget enhancements.

• Educational initiatives also thrived with over 16,000 scholarships awarded in media studies and vocational training programs aimed at empowering youth with better educational opportunities.

Social Protection Strategies and Achievements

Overview of Social Initiatives

• The government has surpassed the goal of providing over 50,000 concrete floors, declaring 11 municipalities free from dirt floors, which represents a significant opportunity for youth to build better lives.

• Utilizing data from the social household registry allowed effective outreach, leading to the census of over 400,000 households in 55 municipalities last year. This will impact future goals set for 2026.

Integral Community Transformation

• The "mano a mano" strategy is highlighted as a flagship initiative aimed at comprehensive community transformation, starting with replacing dirt floors and extending to providing safe water and improved cooking facilities.

• When these interventions are implemented together, they significantly enhance family health, reduce expenses, improve children's learning conditions, and create more opportunities for elderly individuals. This approach aims to lift families out of poverty through holistic state support.

Future Commitments and Goals

• For the upcoming year, there is a commitment to expand social protection efforts by reaching over 350,000 families with social bonuses and increasing the number of community kitchens to 170. Additionally, more than 77,500 youths will benefit from the "Jóvenes Protagonistas" program.

• The plan includes completing the census in remaining municipalities with high poverty rates by 2027 to ensure targeted assistance reaches those most in need. This aligns with government objectives for comprehensive coverage in vulnerable areas.

Structural Interventions

• Structural improvements include delivering over 100,000 energy-efficient stoves and constructing more than 100,000 concrete floors while declaring additional municipalities free from dirt floors as part of an integrated welfare strategy.

• These initiatives are part of a broader intersectoral strategy that aims to extend services into more municipalities by 2026 while enhancing coordination among institutions for effective outreach to needy households.

Commitment to Dignity and Justice

• The speaker emphasizes that these targets represent not just numbers but dignified living conditions and real opportunities for thousands of families; they reflect a public policy focused on supportive rather than merely distributive measures. Thanking leadership reinforces this commitment towards justice and dignity in governance practices.

Call for Legal Integrity

• A message of solidarity is expressed towards leaders facing unjust circumstances; it highlights ongoing efforts toward restoring justice within Guatemala's legal framework amidst challenges faced by advocates like Luis Pacheco and Héctor Chaclán.

• A call is made urging lawyers across Guatemala to actively participate in voting processes crucial for judicial appointments—emphasizing ethical decision-making aligned with democratic values during elections ahead.

Transparency in the Selection Process

Concerns About Media Access

• A question is raised regarding the lack of space for media to document candidates applying for a judicial position, highlighting concerns about secrecy in the process.

• The Secretary mentions that there is a designated area for media to register candidates as they arrive, questioning why this information was not communicated clearly earlier.

Clarification on Accessibility

• The President asserts that all documents received by the General Secretariat are accessible and invites journalists to be present during candidate registrations.

• The Secretary General confirms that their office operates Monday through Friday and welcomes public participation in the selection process.

Volume of Documentation

• It is noted that over 5,000 documents are processed annually by the General Secretariat, indicating a high volume of interest from potential candidates.

Addressing Perceptions of Secrecy

• Officials express confusion over public uncertainty regarding transparency, emphasizing their commitment to openness and communication with journalists.

• They clarify that no restrictions have been placed on media access and reaffirm their dedication to transparent governance practices.

Census of Incarcerated Individuals

Update on Prison Population

• The Minister provides an update on a recent census conducted among incarcerated individuals, reporting a total of 23,837 prisoners identified across 24 facilities.

Breakdown of Gang Affiliations

• Among those surveyed, 2,445 individuals are linked to terrorist organizations; specific numbers are given for two major gangs: Barrio 18 and Mara Salvatrucha.

Corruption Index Insights

Discussion on Corruption Perception

• A journalist questions whether Guatemala's improved ranking in corruption perception poses risks related to appointments in key governmental positions.

Regional Comparisons

• The President highlights Guatemala's unique position alongside the Dominican Republic as countries showing improvement in corruption metrics within Latin America.

Addressing Corruption and Governance in Guatemala

Current State of Corruption

• The speaker emphasizes the urgent need to address corruption, noting that Guatemala has been on a downward trend but is now beginning to reverse this decline.

• Acknowledges that institutional frameworks must be established for effective governance, highlighting the role of the National Commission within the executive branch.

Legislative Efforts Against Corruption

• Discusses ongoing legislative initiatives aimed at combating corruption, including laws like the Anti-Money Laundering Law and regulations for beneficial ownership transparency.

• Stresses the importance of restructuring civil service to eliminate corruption rather than applying temporary fixes.

Citizen Participation and Ethical Voting

• Calls for more honest citizens to participate in elections and urges professionals to vote ethically to ensure progress in governance.

• References an international report indicating a global deterioration in anti-corruption efforts, with Guatemala being one of the few countries making progress.

Sustaining Progress Against Corruption

• Highlights Guatemala's unique position as one of only ten countries improving its anti-corruption stance amidst widespread global challenges.

• Emphasizes that sustained effort is necessary for long-term success in overcoming systemic issues related to corruption.

Recent Legislative Developments

• Mentions recent approval by Congress regarding debt forgiveness related to inheritances, which has garnered public interest.

Clarification on Exoneration Policies

• The Secretary General discusses three types of exonerations analyzed by the presidency, emphasizing humanitarian grounds for certain exemptions.

• Explains changes regarding inheritance tax exemptions and how they will no longer require presidential approval under new legislation.

Security Concerns Regarding Gang Leadership

• Addresses concerns about gang leadership following significant arrests, asserting that all individuals must adhere to prison discipline without privileges.

Government Response to Gang Control

Overview of Gang Leadership and Prison Control

• The government does not differentiate between leaders of rival gangs, asserting that they are not negotiating with any criminal group.

• Prisons housing gang members are under strict control by the police penitentiary system, emphasizing state authority over criminal organizations.

• Questions arise regarding the procurement of weapons and patrol vehicles for the National Civil Police (PNC), indicating ongoing concerns about law enforcement resources.

Procurement and Resource Allocation

• The government is in the process of preparing bids to purchase 1,000 patrol vehicles, backed by a budget of 200 million authorized under anti-gang legislation for arms and equipment.

• Current negotiations focus on identifying specific needs for police and prison systems while exploring potential government-to-government purchases for armaments.

Transparency in Government Appointments

• A journalist inquires about live broadcasting cabinet appointments to enhance transparency, reflecting public interest in governmental processes.

• The president confirms that Luis Chaclán will continue his role until he can resume duties after legal proceedings conclude.

Cabinet Meeting Procedures

• It is clarified that there are no requirements for cabinet meetings to be publicly broadcasted; decisions made during these meetings will be announced later.

• Historical context is provided, noting that previous cabinet designations have not been transmitted publicly, maintaining a tradition of confidentiality in such deliberations.

Community Initiatives and Cultural Programs

Launching New Sports Programs

• Introduction of "Luchando Porto Barrio," a new initiative aimed at opening free Olympic wrestling schools across three city locations starting Thursday.

Educational Opportunities at Museums

• The Incibumé Museum opens on February 16th, showcasing Guatemala's climate monitoring history through an interactive timeline—an educational opportunity for families.

Economic Development through Trade Shows

• Seven Guatemalan companies participated in a major international fruit and vegetable trade fair in Germany, promoting local products and enhancing economic prospects.

School Enrollment Announcements

• Public school enrollment is now open for children aged four to six years across the country, encouraging early education participation among families.

Key Initiatives for Children's Development in Guatemala

Importance of Play and Learning

• Emphasizes the significance of play as a crucial stage for children to learn, explore the world, and prepare for their future.

• Highlights various sectors involved in children's development, including sports, culture, education, and positive news for Guatemala.

• Mentions upcoming plans ("plancitos") aimed at enhancing children's experiences after the current week.

• Expresses gratitude towards attendees and stakeholders involved in these initiatives.

Acknowledgments to Participants

• Thanks friends and colleagues for joining the event this morning.

• Recognizes authorities who shared important information during the session.

• Extends appreciation to media representatives and viewers from Guatemala TV and radio listeners of TGWB.

• Acknowledges distinguished friends on social media platforms.