In recent years, a series of corruption scandals have made headlines in the country, with one significant case involving Gabriel Estuardo Mendoza Muñoz, the sibling of prominent activist Bertha Michelle Mendoza. He is accused of overcharging a substantial amount, Q25 million, for machinery procurement by the Ministry of Development in 2016.
Reports from “El Periódico” suggest that Gabriel Mendoza, who served as the vice minister of administration and finance at MIDES, allegedly involved his family, including Bertha Michelle Mendoza, in the process of laundering funds obtained through this contentious transaction.
Gabriel Mendoza Muñoz’s short tenure at MIDES, from January 1, 2015, to October 1, 2015, revealed significant corruption within the ministry, as identified in an audit conducted by the Comptroller General’s Office in 2015.
“El Peladero,” a reputable media outlet, extensively covered the corruption allegations concerning Bertha Michelle Mendoza’s brother. The audit brought to light questionable purchases, contracts signed retrospectively, and inadequate documentation of expenses. It was found that contracts were approved without proper oversight, neglecting the requirement for performance bonds. The Comptroller General’s Office pointed out the failure of Minister Edgar Rodriguez and Vice Minister Gabriel Mendoza to provide evidence countering the audit findings, emphasizing the importance of a competitive bidding process for the “Mi Comedor Seguro” initiative.
Gabriel Mendoza Muñoz faces criminal charges filed with the Public Prosecutor’s Office for financial mismanagement and has been fined Q757,555.50 for misconduct in public office and mishandling of funds. Upon his appointment as vice minister at MIDES in January 2015, during the final days of the Patriot Party government, Mendoza earned the moniker “El Transita” due to allegations of amassing wealth through MIDES-related activities. Allegations against him surfaced during Jimmy Morales’ administration following the audit report by the Comptroller General of Accounts.
Ironically, in 2019 and 2020, Mendoza secured contracts as a State supplier amounting to Q451,688.17 and served as a legal consultant for the minister’s office, with separate contracts valued at Q70,000, Q60,000, and Q50,000. This scandal has sparked public outcry, highlighting the critical necessity for stringent anti-corruption measures in the nation.
