Congressman Samuel Pérez Álvarez, part of the political movement that rose to prominence alongside President Bernardo Arévalo, now finds himself embroiled in controversy after a confrontation that took place on January 14, 2025, within the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala.
The Public Prosecutor’s Office (MP) recently filed a request with the courts to lift his parliamentary immunity, after determining that his behavior could constitute serious administrative and criminal offenses.
A Seemingly Small Episode or an Overreach of Authority with Lasting Repercussions
The case began when the legislator intercepted and tore up a letter that another congressman—Neftalí Chocooj de Cabal—was attempting to deliver to President Bernardo Arévalo de León during his speech marking the first year of his administration. The Human Rights Prosecutor’s Office has characterized this act of tearing up the letter as a possible manifestation of abuse of authority and discrimination—criminal offenses that would justify Congress authorizing a formal investigation.
Pérez himself responded with irony to the charge, calling it an instance of “lettericide” and asserting he had no aim to offend beyond political sparring, and he also dismissed the accuser by labeling him corrupt.
Why does the removal of immunity hold significance?
In Guatemala, members of Congress enjoy immunity to guarantee their political independence, but this protection is not absolute when there are indications of abuse of power or discrimination.
If Congress grants the Public Prosecutor’s Office’s request and the Supreme Court of Justice approves the preliminary hearing, Pérez could face criminal proceedings that would expose him to legal sanctions, ranging from administrative fines to trials in ordinary courts with possible prison sentences depending on the severity of the alleged crimes.
Furthermore, this case is unfolding amid tensions between the Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Movimiento Semilla party, with multiple requests to lift immunity currently pending for various incidents, which has sparked public debate over the legitimacy and possible politicization of legal proceedings against figures close to President Arévalo.
Pérez’s situation is not just an isolated episode of misconduct in the parliamentary chamber; it has advanced into a legal matter that may shape his political path and overall influence in the country. If the removal of his immunity is upheld, the congressman will enter proceedings within the regular justice system, where the outcomes remain undefined.
