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Guatemala Implements Hardline Anti-Gang Legislation Amid Deepening Political Turmoil

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Guatemala Implements Hardline Anti-Gang Legislation Amid Deepening Political Turmoil

MA

3 weeks ago7 min read

Guatemala's Congress has enacted the 'Law for the Frontline Combat of Criminal Activities of Maras,' a severe anti-gang measure that intensifies the nation's crackdown on organized crime. Approved overwhelmingly on October 21st, the legislation imposes substantially longer prison sentences and establishes a new, segregated prison system designed to dismantle the leadership of powerful gangs like MS-13 and Barrio 18.The law's introduction, however, coincides with a severe political crisis that has seen anti-corruption judges and prosecutors targeted, leading to widespread concerns about the erosion of judicial independence. Proponents defend the move as a necessary step to combat extortion and violence, but human rights advocates and regional experts warn of the potential for abuse, pointing to the failed 'iron fist' policies in neighboring El Salvador and Honduras, which often resulted in prison overcrowding and the further entrenchment of criminal networks. The central question remains whether this aggressive legal framework represents a sustainable security strategy or a politically motivated maneuver to divert attention from the country's deepening institutional crisis.

#Guatemala

#anti-gang law

#harsher penalties

#new prisons

#political crisis

#legislation

#Central America

#featured

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