The Supreme Court of Justice (CSJ) denounced this Thursday, May 7, threats, acts of intimidation and pressure against the president of the Judicial Branch (OJ), Claudia Lucrecia Paredes Castañeda, and requested the intervention of the authorities to guarantee her safety.
Through a statement, the plenary session of magistrates expressed “deep concern” and rejected the actions directed against the official, considering that they represent a threat against judicial independence and the democratic order.
“The search or dissemination of personal information about the family, children and residence of any public official constitutes an unacceptable act,” the CSJ stated in the statement.
The plenary session also expressed “firm and unconditional” support for the management of Paredes Castañeda and endorsed the work carried out by the Nomination Commission for the election of the attorney general and head of the Public Ministry, a process that she presided over.
The statement recorded the reasoned vote against the fifth vocal magistrate, Estuardo Adolfo Cárdenas, who expressed disagreement with the publication of the statement and argued that those who hold public office must be aware that they will receive offenses.
However, the majority of magistrates rejected that position and held that no official is obliged to tolerate harassment or invasions of private and family life.
The CSJ demanded that state entities provide an “urgent, effective and coordinated” response to protect the president of the OJ.
CC also reported threats
The CSJ’s ruling came after the Constitutional Court (CC) reported on threats and attacks against some of its magistrates.
The CC indicated in a statement that in recent days intimidation was reported against the president of the court, Gladys Annabella Morfín Mansilla, and other members of the constitutional judiciary.
“All actions that seek to violate the principles that ensure the free and independent exercise of the jurisdictional function are strongly rejected,” the CC said.
The court also called for maintaining respect, legality and democratic dialogue.
The current magistracy of the CC took office at dawn on April 14, in the midst of legal actions related to the election of one of its members.
None of the statements detail the type of threats reported.
The Supreme Court of Justice informs the population:#OJ #CSJ pic.twitter.com/ggyvSSuYqU
— Judicial Branch (@OJGuatemala) May 7, 2026
*Stay up to date with the Now newsletter. Key information at the moment it happens. Subscribe here.