WASHINGTON, September 3 (Sputnik) — The United States respects the decision of President Otto Perez Molina to resign and looks forward to start working with the country’s new government after evidence of corruption was brought against Perez, White House spokesperson Josh Earnest said on Thursday.
"The United States respects the decision of Guatemalan President Otto Perez Molina to submit his resignation, we commend the people of Guatemala and their institutions for the manner in which they have dealt with this crisis and continue to underscore our support for Guatemala's democratic and constitutional institutions," Earnest stated in a press briefing.
Earnest explained that the United States supports the "succession steps being carried out," and is ready to work with Guatemalan Vice President Alejandro Maldonado Aguirre.
He noted that Washington supports "Guatemala's democratic process, including peaceful general elections" scheduled for September 6th.
Earlier on Thursday, Perez Molina resigned after the country’s parliament voted overnight to strip him of immunity and approved his resignation.
Perez Molina had repeatedly refused to step down from office despite evidence of alleged corruption brought against him. Perez Molina’s officials are accused of receiving bribes from companies in exchange for relief from import duties.
The Guatemalan ministers of finance, economy, infrastructure, education and health have all resigned amid the scandal.
On Sunday, Guatemalans will vote to elect a president, vice president, all parliamentarians as well as local authorities.
