Washington Backs CICIG’s Ivan Velasquez; Will Not Tolerate Political Influence in Guatemala

Adrienne Galanek

Protests continue in Guatemala where Guatemalan President Jimmy Morales attempted to remove the head of the U.N. anti-corruption commission, known as CICIG.  Numerous countries have denounced the attempt to expel Ivan Velasquez, including the U.S.  The State Department has expressed concerned over President Morales’ decision and threaten to review its aid program with Guatemala.  Charge d’ Affaires Adrienne Galanek says Velasquez was effective in his role.

Adrienne Galanek, Chargé d’Affaires, U.S. Embassy in Belize

“The United States’ State Department did issue a statement expressing its concern over President Morales’ decision to bar Mister Velasquez from Guatemala and we believe that Mister Velasquez is a very effective leader and it is very important for CICIG to continue its work unimpeded by political interference.”