The U.S. notes the importance of a strong , transparent justice system . Former Guatemalan dictator Efrain Rios Montt was found guilty of the genocide of more than 1,700 indigenous Ixil Mayans during his 1982-83 rule . It is essential to ensure that those who commit crimes are held accountable for their actions and punished accordingly. He was sentenced to 80 years in prison ; his co-defendant was absolved . Guatemalan president insists there was no genocide .
The U.S. notes the importance of a strong , transparent justice system . It is essential to ensure that those who commit crimes are held accountable for their actions and punished accordingly. He was sentenced to 80 years in prison ; his co-defendant was absolved . Guatemalan president insists there was no genocide .