While the president insists on staying in office, the commission appointed to examine the arguments in President Perez Molina's defense and evidence presented by the prosecution decided unanimously to recommend to Congress to waive his immunity so that he faces judgement. On September 1st, the Congress voted and decided to remove the inmunity.

S21.com.gt reports that "... Despite the fact that at 10 o'clock the presence of President Otto Perez Molina was expected in Congress to present his defense, he did not attend the summons and instead sent a written report through Calderon. "

According to the deputy Selvin Garcia, chief of the Creo bench, 'Now that the inquiry Commission has formed its opinion, the deputies are ready to meet and make the impeachment vote in Parliament; this is why we are requesting that within 24 hours an extraordinary plenary session be convened.'"

"... In a tweet the Coordinating Committee for Agricultural, Commercial, Industrialist and Financial Associations (Cacif) stated: 'We demand that members act responsibly and meet and hear the clamor from citizens that Perez face justice.' "

Source: s21.com.gt

More on this topic

Guatemala: Sovereign Rating Not Affected by Political Crisis

September 2015

In the view of Standard & Poor's the resignation of Perez Molina and the customs fraud will not have a negative impact on debt ratings in the short-term.

From a statement issued by Standard & Poor's:

Mexico City, September 3, 2015.- Otto Perez Molina resigned from the presidency of Guatemala after the National Congress withdrew his legal immunity.

Guatemala: Court Authorizes Impeachment of Perez Molina

August 2015

The Constitutional Court has found that the evidence presented by the prosecution is enough to have Congress to decide whether or not to remove immunity from the president.

The decision to lift the immunity of President Perez Molina so that he may face corruption charges now lies with the legislature.

The Future of Investments in Guatemala

August 2015

In the view of the private sector the decision taken by President Perez Molina to remain in his position contributes to the further deterioration of the country's image, at a time when the economy is showing signs of stability.

Just as the decision by the Public Ministry and the International Commission Against Impunity (CICIG) to conduct an investigation was applauded by the Guatemalan business sector, the president's decision to remain in office has not been well received and has caused deep concern, mainly because of the negative impact it has on the country as a destination for foreign investment.

Impeachment requested for Perez Molina

August 2015

The Public Ministry of Guatemala believes it is "likely" that President Otto Perez Molina was involved in the customs fraud network known as "La Línea" and has called for his impeachment in the Supreme Court.

The International Commission Against Impunity (CICIG) and the Public Prosecutor filed a request to lift the immunity of President Otto Perez Molina and to carry out a formal investigation based on the evidence which has been gathered.