During the event, we discussed key issues such as legislative agendas, deputies' absenteeism, and parliamentary vices used as strategies for political prominence. It became clear that Congress, instead of being a space where laws are made and oversight is exercised for the benefit of citizens, continues to be an institution that contributes little and has captured legislative power to serve its own interests. Not only has it failed to represent us, but it has also distorted what citizens truly need and demand.
Congress cannot continue to be a dark and distant space from the reality Guatemalans experience daily. Therefore, citizens must get to know their representatives, stay informed, and demand transparency and accountability. But above all, we talked about the importance of uniting in our own spaces, in our communities, and starting to build proposals together. Because true political action lies in citizen engagement to improve our country's political system.
This dialogue was an exercise to remind us that change begins when we organize, inform ourselves, and dare to challenge everything that has become "normal" for decades. There is a better future for Guatemala, but we must build it together, with a firm voice and clear vision.
The dialogue with Jorge Gabriel Jiménez and Alejandro Quinteros made it clear that the disconnect between citizens and Congress is not just a problem of representation, but of a lack of accountability and active participation. Institutions do not fully fulfill their functions, and legislative quality leaves much to be desired. Given this, it was emphasized that constant citizen pressure is essential: moving from protest to proposal, uniting organizations, formulating public policy, and pointing out solutions, from the citizenry. To achieve this, it is crucial for more young people to educate themselves, stay informed, and get involved in improving the Republic. Only then can we seize the opportunities that citizen engagement offers, highlight those who truly want to change the rules of the game, and force real transformations, such as the urgent reform of the LEPP.
Carlos Barrios.