Guatemalan Congress Fails Again to Elect Competition Superintendent Director Amid Quorum Shortage

Guatemala City, Guatemala – For the second time this week, the Congress of the Republic has failed to elect the director of the Superintendence of Competition, citing a persistent lack of quorum. The repeated postponement raises concerns as the legal deadline for the election is fast approaching, set for Monday, June 23rd. Nery Ramos, President of the Permanent Commission, assured that the matter remains a priority on the legislative agenda. "The dialogue with various blocs continues to reach an agreement," Ramos stated, emphasizing the commitment to fulfilling the mandate of the Congress. Deputy Jorge Ayala, a member of the Economy Commission and vocal representative of the Permanent Commission, warned of potential legal repercussions should the Congress fail to meet the deadline. "If the election is not completed, there could be intervention from the Constitutional Court, which would compel Congress to fulfill its obligation," Ayala explained. He further noted that while initial legislative initiatives can proceed with a reduced quorum, the election of the superintendent and his alternate requires a quorum of 81 deputies, which has not been met. Ayala expressed optimism that a sufficient quorum would be achieved in the next session to complete the election. He highlighted the importance of the director's integration, as it precedes the election of the superintendent, another critical process with its own timeline. The Monetary Board has already appointed its representatives, and President Bernardo Arévalo's Council of Ministers is expected to announce their chosen professionals soon. However, the Congress's delay threatens to impede the full establishment of the Superintendence of Competition within the legal timeframe.