“The Secretary-General is aware of the deep desire shown by the country’s citizens to put an end to corruption and impunity, as well as ongoing calls for legal and political reforms,”said a statement issued by Ban’s spokesperson in New York.

Welcoming constructive efforts by the people of Guatemala to participate in and contribute to their country’s political system, the UN chief appealed to the authorities and all sectors of society to work together in order to strengthen institutions and the rule of law in the country.

Calling Thursday a historic day, Alberto Brunori, Representative for the High Commissioner of Human Rights in Guatemala, said in an interview with UN Radio that the UN is maintaining the observation of human rights, considering that on Sunday there will be the first round of elections.

“We will monitor human rights, particularly possible attacks on human rights defenders,” said Brunori, adding that they will try to have a deployment to prevent forms of violence and conflicts.

“We would like to see a transition period with the reforms that the people, the Guatemalans, are asking for,” he underscored.

Photo: UN Photo/Evan Schneider (file)