Urgent Action: Bill could grant amnesty for grave crimes

Guatemala’s Congress could imminently pass a law that would grant an amnesty to those suspected or found guilty of crimes such as genocide, torture, and enforced disappearances during the internal armed conflict (1960-1996). The bill could lead to the release of those found guilty within 24 hours of its approval. It would also lead to the suspension of ongoing investigations into these crimes. Guatemala’s Congress must refrain from passing this bill to respect the rights of victims to justice, truth and reparation.

Take action.

PLEASE SEND APPEALS BEFORE 12 MARCH 2019

Please write urgently in your own words or using the template letter included in English or Spanish to:

Álvaro Enrique Arzú Escobar 

Email: aarzu@congreso.gob.gt 

Twitter: @AlvaroArzuE @CongresoGuate

Salutation: Dear Mr Arzú

With copies to: 

Vice President of Congress 

Felipe Alejos Lorenzana 

Email: falejos@congreso.gob.gt 

Twitter: @FelipeAlejos 

Also send copies to diplomatic representatives accredited to your country.

HIS EXCELLENCY MR ACISCLO VALLADARES MOLINA, Embassy of Guatemala, 1st Floor & Suite1, 2nd Floor, 105a Westbourne Grove W2 4UW, 020 7221 1525, info@embaguate.com 

Please check with your section office if sending appeals after the above date.

Due to mail logistics problems in Guatemala, many countries have suspended international postal mail to Guatemala. Therefore, we recommend sending emails or tweets.