Guatemala’s Former Government Aide Sanctioned by US for Corruption
Washington D.C. - The United States Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has sanctioned Luis Miguel Martinez Morales, a former high-ranking government official in Guatemala, for his role in widespread bribery schemes and corruption.
Background
According to OFAC, Martinez was designated under Executive Order 13818, which targets individuals responsible for serious human rights abuse and corruption around the world. The move is seen as a major blow against corruption in Guatemala, where officials have long been accused of embezzling public funds and engaging in corrupt practices.
Martinez’s Activities
Martinez, who was previously the head of the powerful Centro de Gobierno agency, used his position to:
- Influence government contracts and award them to favored bidders outside of the official procurement system
- Solicit large kickbacks for facilitating the purchase of Russian vaccines by the Guatemalan government
US Reaction
The US Treasury’s Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence, Brian E. Nelson, stated that Martinez’s actions had undermined democracy in Guatemala and threatened the stability of the region as a whole. “Today’s action underscores the corrosive impact of corruption on public trust in government institutions,” he said.
Anti-Corruption Efforts
This is the latest move by the US to hold accountable individuals responsible for corruption in Guatemala. Since 2021, the US has sanctioned 11 individuals and entities in the country for their role in corrupt activities. The Department of State has also used visa restriction tools to promote accountability for corrupt officials.
Sanctions
Under the sanctions, all property and interests in property of Martinez that are in the United States or in the possession or control of US persons are blocked and must be reported to OFAC. The sanctions also prohibit transactions by US persons or within the United States that involve any property or interests in property of designated or otherwise blocked persons.
Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act
The move is part of the US’s Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, which aims to impose tangible consequences on individuals responsible for serious human rights abuse and corruption. This designation sends a strong signal that the US will not tolerate corruption and will take action against those who engage in such practices.
Conclusion
Martinez’s sanction is a major victory for anti-corruption efforts in Guatemala, where public trust in government institutions has been eroded by widespread corruption. The move highlights the US commitment to promoting accountability and transparency in foreign governments and underscores its willingness to take decisive action against those who engage in corrupt activities.