Guatemala: Immediate Release of Claudia González

The Americas, September 21, 2023.  Yesterday, the Fourth Criminal Court of Appeals of Guatemala ordered Judge Jimi Brenes that he has 48 hours to conclude the first statement hearing of attorney Claudia González, a deadline that expires tomorrow, Friday, September 22. This resolution comes in response to a motion for Personal Exhibit filed by Claudia González’s legal team, in light of the malicious and protracted delay that has plagued the first declaration hearing, extending it for more than 20 days. It is imperative to note that the hearing will proceed, even if attempts are made to maliciously disrupt it, including the absence of representatives from the prosecutor’s office and/or the adhesive plaintiff.

The human rights lawyer, Claudia Gonzalez, has been detained for 24 days without a resolution on her legal status resolved, in violation of the Constitution, which establishes a maximum period of 24 hours to determine the legal status of a detained person (Article 9).

In adherence to international human rights principles, Article 7.6 of the American Convention on Human Rights unequivocally asserts, Article 7.6 of the American Convention on Human Rights states that: «Everyone who is deprived of his liberty has the right to recourse to a competent court or tribunal, in order that the court or tribunal may decide without delay on the lawfulness of his arrest or detention and order his release if the arrest or detention is not lawful or if the person has been deprived of his liberty. The detention were unlawful.»

We, the undersigned organizations, urgently and fervently call for the immediate and unwavering compliance with the Fourth Chamber’s order. It is of paramount importance that Claudia González Orellana, who is enduring an unjust detention, be granted her freedom without further delay. The State of Guatemala must honor its international human rights commitments, uphold due process, and safeguard the well-being and integrity of all human rights defenders. We stand united in this call for justice, demanding the immediate release of Claudia González.