OAS Special Mission Concludes Visit to Guatemala and Calls for a Transparent, Merit-Based Election of the Comptroller General of Accounts

Press Release

OAS Special Mission Concludes Visit to Guatemala and Calls for a Transparent, Merit-Based Election of the Comptroller General of Accounts

The Special Mission of the Organization of American States (OAS) for the Strengthening of Democratic Institutions in Guatemala called today for a transparent, merit-based process for electing the Comptroller General of Accounts, as it concluded its fifth visit to the country. During the visit, the Mission held meetings with officials from the Office of the President of the Republic, the Constitutional Court, the Comptroller General of Accounts' Office, and the Public Prosecutor's Office, as well as with representatives of the international community, civil society organizations, academia, analysts, and the media.

On this occasion, the Mission appeared before the Nominating Committee for the election of the Comptroller General of Accounts for the 2026-2030 term, where it presented its preliminary suggestions and recommendations orally and submitted a written statement on the matter. The Mission appreciates the openness of the authorities and stakeholders consulted, as well as the information and assessments shared during the visit.

The Mission monitored the selection process for the next Comptroller General of Accounts, a key institution in Guatemalan democracy responsible for overseeing public resources, ensuring accountability, and preventing corruption. In this regard, the Mission reiterates the importance of the Nominating Committee evaluating the candidates with rigor, objectivity, and transparency, and ensuring that its decisions are based on the candidates' merits, experience, integrity, independence, and suitability. The public nature of the sessions, access to the application files, proper evaluation of allegations, and justification of ratings are essential to ensuring the legitimacy of the shortlist. It will then be up to Congress to conduct a responsible election, based on the capabilities necessary to lead a technical and independent institution. Congress, in turn, must hold public hearings and interviews to select and elect the most qualified candidate.

The Mission was made aware of concerns regarding the effects that the requirement, denial, or revocation of the Temporary Certificate of No Pending Claims (finiquito) may have on political rights and equal access to public office, in accordance with inter-American standards. While this instrument serves an oversight function, its application must not constitute an automatic, arbitrary, or disproportionate restriction on the exercise of political and electoral rights. Decisions must be based on clear rules, verifiable facts, and procedures that guarantee the right to defense, the possibility of judicial review, and a timely resolution.

Additionally, the Mission received information regarding the ongoing institutional crisis at the University of San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC). This situation continues to be a matter of national significance, and its consequences extend beyond the University's participation in nominating committees and other second-degree election processes. USAC plays a central role in the country's public life, in professional training, in the production of knowledge, and in the integration of various State bodies.

The ongoing questions regarding the legitimacy of its authorities, the functioning of USAC's governing bodies, and respect for its internal procedures affect the university community and undermine confidence in an institution that is fundamental to Guatemalan democracy. University autonomy entails a responsibility to ensure legality, democratic participation, the legitimate election of its authorities, transparency, accountability, and pluralism within the University itself.

The Mission urges the competent authorities, the university community, and the various national sectors to continue their efforts toward institutional reform and vetting at the USAC, in accordance with the Constitution, the law, due process, and university autonomy. These efforts must continue beyond each election cycle and be directed toward addressing the structural causes of the crisis, restoring the legitimacy of its governing bodies, and ensuring transparent and democratic internal processes.

The Special Mission reaffirms its willingness to continue supporting Guatemala in strengthening its democratic institutions and promoting reforms that consolidate independence, transparency, accountability, and public trust.

Reference: E-094/26