Torres Releases Statement on List of Corrupt Officials in Central America

Statement

WASHINGTON D.C. -- Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35), the sole Central American working in Congress and Co-Chair of the Congressional Central American Caucus released a statement following the release of a third list of corrupt Central American officials prepared and made public by the U.S. State Department today.

"We continue to see governments plagued with corruption in Central America," said Rep. Norma J. Torres." This list confirms significant anti-democratic actions in the region from officials who interfere with independent investigations and work against those who uphold the rule of law."

"This is an important step to hold accountable high-level officials and their accomplices that are directly involved in corruption and obstruction of democratic processes," continued Rep. Norma J. Torres. "I know these decisions were not taken lightly. These individuals used their power to attack judicial officials, shelter corrupt interests, and carry out political agendas that are counter to their own constitutions. I will continue working with our government to counter democratic backsliding and ensure our aid reaches the people we intend to help."
Congresswoman Torres previously requested and received two lists from the State Department on corrupt officials in the region. It supports her efforts in the Appropriations Committee to leverage all of the U.S. government's tools to hold corrupt, undemocratic actors accountable, while supporting the brave actors fighting to uphold the rule of law in the region. Torres has long worked to ensure U.S. funding benefits the people in Central America who need it.

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