Guatemala request to lift president’s immunity to proceed

GUATEMALA CITY — Guatemala’s Supreme Court ruled Monday that a request to lift President Jimmy Morales’ immunity from prosecution should go before lawmakers for final consideration.

The court’s decision on the request from prosecutors is related to allegations of illegal financing for Morales’ 2015 campaign. Investigations have targeted several political parties including his National Convergence Front.

“There appears to be sufficient evidence to allow the transfer of the case to congress,” Supreme Court spokesman Angel Pineda said.

Congress must now form a five-member committee to examine the case and present its conclusion to the full body. For the immunity of office that Morales enjoys as president to be lifted, 105 of the 158 deputies would have to vote in favour.