The Special Mission of the Organization of American States for the Strengthening of Democratic Institutions in Guatemala takes note of the announcement, on September 20, of the list of six candidates for Comptroller General of Accounts for the 2026–2030 term. In light of the stages involving the objection period, the submission of the shortlist, and the election by the Congress of the Republic, the Mission reiterates its call to preserve the transparency of the process and to base the decision on the competence, recognized integrity, and independence of the person who will assume this responsibility.
As has already been noted, the Office of the Comptroller General plays an essential role in democratic oversight, the protection of public resources, and the prevention of corruption. Its head must possess the necessary competence, independence, and autonomy to oversee all entities under its jurisdiction with equal rigor, including those linked to individuals who supported their election.
The Mission considers it essential that the Nominating Committee publish the documentation supporting the list of nominees, ensure compliance with the legal deadlines for filing objections, and resolve objections on a case-by-case basis with detailed reasoning, while respecting the right of defense. The files submitted to Congress must provide information on the qualifications, allegations and defenses, the verifications conducted, and the reasons for the decisions.
It will be the responsibility of Congress to evaluate the six candidates. Inclusion on the shortlist and the scores obtained do not constitute the entirety of the suitability review. Recognized integrity requires an explicit assessment, supported by verifiable information. Allegations must be examined while affording the candidates an opportunity to respond, without attributing responsibility for unsubstantiated claims or omitting facts relevant to the performance of the office.
The Mission encourages the Legislative Branch to publish the schedule in a timely manner, facilitate access to public records, and hold public hearings to conduct meaningful interviews with the candidates on an equal footing. It also recommends receiving observations from civil society, indigenous authorities, academia, and other sectors, allowing sufficient time to consider these inputs before voting. The public should be informed of the rationale behind the votes and the reasons for the final selection.
The independence of the future authority requires special attention to potential conflicts of interest and ties that could influence their actions. Experience at an audited institution or within the Comptroller's Office itself should be evaluated based on each individual's track record and conduct. The Mission urges that the selection process remain free from any commitments regarding audits, appointments, hiring, or favorable treatment of those involved in the appointment process.
In view of the upcoming electoral process, it is equally important to preserve the objectivity of audits and of the issuance, denial, or revocation of clearance certificates. These powers must be exercised on a legal basis, using uniform criteria and respecting due process, avoiding their use as mechanisms of pressure or political exclusion, and adhering to inter-American standards on the matter.
The Mission calls for ensuring the institutional transition within the legal deadlines, in compliance with applicable judicial rulings and under conditions that allow for effective public scrutiny. It reiterates its respect for Guatemala's sovereignty and the powers of its institutions, as well as its willingness to continue supporting this process in accordance with its mandate and the Inter-American Democratic Charter.
Reference: E-098/26
