This morning, the Office of the Special prosecutor against Punishment (FECI) of the Public Ministry searched, inspected, registered and seized evidence in the offices of the company Moore Díaz Reyes y Asociados (owned by relatives of the head of the SAT). According to the investigative entity, the action is part of an inquiry that began four months ago due to complaints that the Tax Administration (SAT) referred many companies to a firm of auditors to resolve their tax situation. In addition, he clarified that Superintendent Marco Livio Díaz Reyes is not being investigated in that case.
Outlook Writing
The head of the FECI, Rafael Curruchiche, explained that this investigation has “nothing to do” with the B410 case, which is being investigated by the Economic Crimes ProsecutorS Office, which is why he said he was surprised by the attitude of the lawyer accepted. . Marco livio Díaz Reyes, superintendent of the SAT, and on behalf of the Government of the Republic, regarding this case.
“Marco Livio Díaz Reyes is not being investigated,the firm is being audited,so it surprises me that the government itself and many people associated with it come out to defend something they know nothing about,” said Curruchiche.
He added “I want to make it clear that they are wholly different situations. It is a lie that this effort is meant to stop the B410 case from continuing to be investigated as people close to the government have claimed; In fact, yesterday the Secretary of Social Communications of the Presidency and today the President of the Republic made statements with complete ignorance of the investigation.
He argued that the investigation of the auditing firm Mooore Díaz reyes y Asociados stems from the knowledge that some companies, through that, were receiving discounts on the SAT. “If there is no further support during the investigation, the appropriate decision will be made,” he said.
Curruchiche declared against Marco Livio Díaz Reyes – who this Thursday asked for a leave of absence from the post of SAT superintendent,now temporarily occupied by Armando Gabriel Pokus Yaquián – there is no arrest warrant nor is it being investigated,that is. why is he surprised by the attitude he has taken in this regard.
“I would wait with him today or tomorrow, in case he knows what it is, we are going to give him the information within the framework of the law,” he said.
WHAT DOES THE BUILDING SAY?
The Superintendent said in a statement that,according to the provisions of Article 12 of the Political Constitution of the Republic of Guatemala: “No one may be convicted,or deprived of their rights,without being summoned,heard and defeated in law.process.” before a pre-established competent judge or court.
In addition, he stated that he filed a preventive constitutional defense action before the Constitutional Court, to guarantee his legitimate right to the presumption of innocence, and also respect for his defense rights and due process.Regarding this issue, the High Court said that the action was accepted for processing but due to a question of jurisdiction it was referred to the Supreme Court of Justice.
According to Díaz, the action was filed due to the FECI’s refusal to inform SAT lawyers of the file containing the alleged investigation and criminal prosecution against him.
It is worth mentioning that the head of the SAT this Thursday, December 5, received a license to be absent from work for a period that has not yet been confirmed. Therefore, the mayor of Taxpayer Services, Armando Pokus, will head the collection entity as an interim head, until more details are known about Díaz’s future.
ARÉVALO supports DÍAZ
The Secretariat of Social Communications of the Presidency (SCSP) shared the position of President Bernardo arévalo on the matter, where he expressed, “it is indeed a pity, that it is scary.The way corruption continues to respond and try to stop those who are in pursuit of corruption.”
They add “What is the interest in stopping the SAT in its supervisory function which has been developed for many years with excellence since the levels of tax collection have been improved,which has reduced the levels of fraud and evasion.”
He also states that “this was achieved thanks to their ability to work. What the Public Ministry is doing is threatening the SAT in that function, which is extremely hazardous.”
he expresses his support to the Superintendent and the SAT staff. “it is truly shameful that this is being done against an institution that is so essential to the rule of law in the contry.”
Time.news Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. We have a compelling topic to discuss regarding the recent inquiry involving Moore Díaz Reyes y Asociados and the SAT.To help us unravel the complexities of this case, we have with us an expert in public policy and taxation, Dr. Elena Vargas. Welcome, Dr. Vargas.
Dr. Vargas: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Time.news Editor: Let’s dive right in. As reported, the FECI has conducted a search and seizure operation at the auditing firm Moore Díaz Reyes y Asociados. Can you explain the implications of this investigation? How meaningful is it in the context of taxpayer rights and public trust?
Dr. Vargas: Absolutely. This investigation raises critical issues about transparency and accountability in tax administration. When an auditing firm with ties to the government is implicated, it casts a shadow of suspicion over the entire tax administration process. taxpayers need to feel their interests are served fairly and without bias,so any government connection to potential misconduct can erode public trust substantially.
Time.news Editor: Right, and interestingly, Superintendent Marco Livio Díaz Reyes has stated he is not the focus of this investigation. How do you interpret his public remarks, especially considering the broader context of government accountability?
Dr. Vargas: His public defense indicates a recognition of the political sensitivities involved. By clarifying that he is not under investigation, he likely aims to distance himself from potential fallout and reassure the public. However, it also underscores the need for strong leadership within government institutions to protect the integrity of tax collection efforts.
Time.news Editor: Rafael Curruchiche from the FECI emphasized that the investigation is separate from the prominent B410 case. Given the public discourse around this matter,why do you think there’s confusion,and how can authorities better communicate these distinctions?
Dr. Vargas: Confusion often arises from the interconnections within government bodies and the complexities of ongoing investigations. when issues are misreported or misinterpreted,it can lead to misinformation. To improve communication, authorities should provide clear, concise, and clear updates about ongoing investigations. Engaging with the public through comprehensive communication strategies can help dispel misunderstandings and reaffirm their commitment to accountability.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like a multifaceted problem. As someone who studies public sector reform, what measures would you recommend moving forward to address the concerns raised by this investigation?
Dr. Vargas: First, establishing an independent oversight body could enhance scrutiny and promote integrity in tax administration. Secondly, implementing rigorous auditing standards and processes for both public and private auditors will help ensure unbiased evaluations. training programs focusing on ethics and transparency for tax officials could cultivate an environment of accountability within these institutions.
Time.news Editor: Those are insightful recommendations. Before we wrap up, what do you think are the potential long-term effects of this investigation on public perceptions regarding fiscal policy and trust in governmental institutions?
Dr. Vargas: If handled transparently, this investigation could be a turning point for enhancing public trust. Citizens may feel reassured that their concerns are being taken seriously. However, if mishandled or perceived as a cover-up, it could lead to further erosion of confidence in government institutions and fiscal policy. Ultimately, transparency and accountability will be key in shaping the narrative moving forward.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Vargas, for sharing your expertise on this pressing issue.It’s clear that the implications extend far beyond this investigation to the broader landscape of governance and civic trust.
Dr. Vargas: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this crucial topic. I hope we continue to see progress in transparency and accountability in our institutions.
Time.news Editor: And thank you to our audience for joining us. Stay tuned for further updates on this story as it unfolds.