The idea that a corrupt Guatemalan deputy could pressure the country's Foreign Ministry to suspend the Cuban medical assistance agreement has stirred anger among the Guatemalan people.
This program of medical cooperation began throughout Central America in the wake of Hurricane Mitch in 1998, and its benefits were expanded with the creation of the Latin American School of Medicine, ELAM, and Operation Miracle.
According to a notice issued by the Cuban embassy in Guatemala City, the medical mission has treated more than 47,344,121 patients and has performed more than 494,360 surgeries. The ophthalmological centers allowed more than 201,000 people with limited resources to recover or improve their vision.
And the 441 Cuban professionals in
that Central American nation today are on the front line in the battle against COVID-19.
However, Felipe Alejos, first vice president of Congress, criticized this solidarity and unconditional aid. Let's find out who this man is, because his low moral strength justifies such a despicable gesture.
Alejos is a member of a wealthy business family, involved in the dirtiest version of politics. Several of his families members are awaiting legal proceedings or trying to escape justice. And the legislator in question is not exempt. He is part of the so-called “Corrupt Pact,” a group of deputies who promote laws to protect their privileges and guarantee impunity for their shady businesses.
Felipe Alejos has been under scrutiny by legal authorities in Guatemala since 2015 for influence peddling and bribes. Taking advantage of his congressional position, he used to charge big companies large sums of money in exchange for guaranteeing tax benefits.
Although there is enough evidence to take him to trial, since 2018, the Supreme Court of Justice has refused three times to waive his immunity. This week, the Constitutional Court ordered for the fourth time to activate the process, which won't go forward simply because the Congress is the one that appoints the supreme magistrates. One hand washes the other.
Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Alejos demanded the withdrawal of Cuban doctors from remote areas where no other Guatemalan medical professional dares to go.
As the French politician Joseph Fouché, would say: "Such a claim is worse than a crime, it is nonsense."
