PRESS RELEASE 012
UNITED KINGDOM SUPPORTS THE COMMISSION'S WORK
Guatemala, March 7, 2012. The Government of the United Kingdom reiterated its support for the International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG) and pledged GTQ549,000.00 to support the fight against impunity in the country.
The addendum was signed by Julie Chappell, Ambassador of the United Kingdom, Aníbal Gutiérrez, CICIG Political Advisor, and René Mauricio Valdés, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System in Guatemala. The Attorney General of the Republic, Claudia Paz y Paz, attended the event as a guest.
"By making this donation we would like to do our bit to contribute to CICIG's work in the country having personally witnessed Guatemalan impunity and insecurity during my three years living here," stated Chappell.
The Ambassador also said the Commission had efficiently solved cases, even though it has not always been possible for the media to perceive such efforts. It is on these grounds that the Government of the United Kingdom remains committed to supporting the work of the Commission and regional efforts to enhance security.
Aníbal Gutiérrez, CICIG Political Advisor, expressed his appreciation for the latest contribution made by the British Government. The donation will be invested in enhancing investigations, crime analysis, security, and proposals to improve public policies and the functioning of the Commission.
"The Embassy of the United Kingdom has been a strong supporter of the Commission's work in Guatemala and, therefore, we would like to express our gratitude to Ambassador Chappell for her commitment to the fight against impunity and her support in other areas such as violence against women and the rights of children and youth," stated Gutiérrez.
Attorney General Paz y Paz declared that CICIG and the MP are working extensively to solve cases, as demonstrated by the recent dismantling of a group of police officers that smuggled gasoline. Furthermore, the joint efforts of the two institutions have strengthened the Witness Protection Program, the Analysis Unit, and Criminal Investigation Unit.
René Mauricio Valdés, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System in Guatemala, joined in thanking the donation made to CICIG and Ambassador Chappell for her efforts. Chappell will leave her current position in the coming days as her diplomatic posting in Guatemala ends.