The proliferation of legal proceedings undertaken by the authorities in Guatemala against a number of independent judges, prosecutors and lawyers, who have been involved in investigating anti-corruption cases, follows a deeply troubling pattern. More than 20 Guatemalan judges, lawyers and prosecutors have already left the country out of fear for their safety. In the course of this week, we have seen the resignation and exile of judge Erika Aifán and the decision by the Supreme Court of Justice to suspend judge Pablo Xitumul from his function.
Judicial proceedings should not be used as a means of harassment and intimidation. The EU reiterates its call on the Guatemalan authorities to ensure the safety and integrity of the judges, prosecutors and lawyers concerned, who have also faced threats of violence.
These developments serve to further weaken the rule of law and the independence of justice in Guatemala, eroding the basis on which democracy is founded.