Actividades

Citizen Dialogue: Representation in Congress

Guatemala's political system faces an urgent challenge: to restore genuine representation of citizens in Congress. The lack of transparency in political decisions, the control of parties over candidate lists, and the disconnect between representatives and citizens.

From Disconnection to Representation: Citizen Dialogue on Electoral Reform

To learn more about this, we were joined by Alejandro Quinteros, co-founder of the National Civic Movement, and José Alberto Rivera, former congressman for the Creo party. With the support of these experts, citizens discussed and concluded what kind of Guatemala we want. And this is seen with representatives who focus on and work for the needs of Guatemalans and are not swayed by their individual interests. 

Why is it necessary to change the system for electing congressmen?

Currently, political parties negotiate positions in Congress in blocs, excluding citizens from this process. Party leaders decide who fills the slots on the lists, which limits true representativeness. Voting for closed and blocked lists prevents citizens from directly choosing their congressmen, fostering a politics of names and parties, rather than one based on proposals and abilities.

Therefore, electoral reform (LEPP) is the most important in the country. To strengthen Congress and ensure a balance of powers in the State, it is necessary to change the entry thresholds and allow qualified people to access decision-making spaces.

  • • The representativeness of congressmen previously depended on the census; however, in 2016, the number of seats was fixed, which does not reflect population changes or guarantee equitable representation.

  • • The smaller an electoral district, the easier it is to know and oversee representatives. In urban areas, people do not recognize their congressmen, which deepens citizen disconnection.

  • • The different forms of lists—open, semi-open, and unblocked—must be analyzed transparently to avoid political manipulation.

What do citizens say?

It's not enough to talk; citizens must act. It's time to question congressmen, demand answers, and highlight the country's true problems. As young people, we must inform ourselves, understand the laws, and use our voices to demand structural changes.

If lists are not open, citizens do not truly choose their representatives. Demanding a more transparent and participatory Congress is everyone's responsibility. A true Republic is only strengthened by an active citizenry committed to Guatemala.

If you want to participate in our upcoming dialogues and other citizen actions, don't miss out and join us here.