Former Guatemalan guerrilla sentenced to 90 years for massacre

Former ORPA commander Fermin Felipe Solano Barillas was sentenced to 90 years in prison after having been found guilty on the charges of homicide and crimes against humanity involving the massacre 22 civilians in the village of El Aguacate, Chimaltenango in 1988.

"This (sentence) is aimed at setting a legal precedent, to prevent these acts from ever being repeated," the court said in its ruling.

Solano Barillas was the first guerrilla convicted of any crimes committed during the armed conflict while a handful of military, police, and PAC officials have been convicted and sentenced. Efrain Rios Montt's trial is expected to start up once again in January but I, like many I presume, have my doubts.

Perhaps the Guatemalan right will now stop complaining that (former AG) Claudia Paz y Paz and the justice system have only gone after individuals aligned with the state and not the guerrillas.

Violent deaths are down nearly 10% so far this year according to INACIF statistics.

A minor was arrested after throwing a grenade at a water purification truck in Zona 18 of Guatemala City. One woman was killed. The seventeen year old is a member of the 18th Street Gang and the motive is believed to have been extortion. Should give added business to the armored clothing industry.

The Guatemalan government is interfering in the academic autonomy and institutionality of FLACSO. It also canceled the temporary residence of two volunteers with Peace Brigades International (here and here).

Happy Holidays!