Torres: Latest List Validates Longtime Efforts to Deny Corrupt & Undemocratic Central American Leaders U.S. Aid

Statement

WASHINGTON, DC -- Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35), the sole Central American serving in Congress and Co-Chair of the Congressional Central America Caucus, commented today on a list of corrupt Central American officials prepared and made public by the U.S. State Department last week.

The document directly names individuals across the political spectrum, throughout different sectors, as well as current and former high-level officials in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. It is the second in a series of State Department publications that began with a similar list prepared and released at Rep. Torres' request.

The most recent list builds on the revelations of Torres' previous list, and further validates her steadfast efforts on the House Appropriations Committee to direct U.S. foreign aid away from corrupt central governments that actively work against U.S. policy interests, and instead focus on support for civil society and independent organizations.

Rep. Torres released the following statement:

"This latest list builds on my previous work exposing corrupt actors in Central America -- it once again demonstrates the corrosive impact that impunity and self-dealing have on all sectors of society, and at every level of government," Rep. Norma J. Torres said. "The inclusion of groups and individuals who use the legal system to attack those upholding the rule of law, along with judges at the highest courts, shows just how tainted the legal system has become. It reflects significant anti-democratic action in the region, and how that advances elite agendas. Most notably, the list is full of people previously exposed by credible journalists from the region, many of whom face regular threats for having the courage to speak out.

"The United States has an important role to play in supporting the rule of law in the face of such rampant corruption and democratic backsliding," Rep. Torres continued. "This list validates my efforts on the House Appropriations Committee to deny U.S. funding from going to the corrupt actors it names, and anyone closely associated with them. I remain focused on delivering those resources to civil society and independent organizations that are committed to the rule of law. I will continue working with the State Department and Treasury to unmask corruption in the region and hold corrupt, undemocratic actors accountable."

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