Congressman Nery Rodas has a vision for the future of Guatemala.
“My vision is to bridge the gap between the traditional and the modern, ensuring that our country not only catches up with global trends but leads in areas like digital governance, infrastructure, and innovation,” Rodas says.
Rodas has had a long career in politics and currently represents the CABAL party as a congressman for the 2024-2028 term. He is also the third vice-president of the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala. He sits on three committees: Foreign Affairs, Agriculture, and Tourism, where he strives to “promote sustainable growth and enhance the well-being of Guatemalans.”
Rodas’s business background has given him what he calls an “entrepreneurial mindset”, which defines how he addresses the challenges he faces. His approach is to identify the problem, research solutions, and decide on a plan that is “scalable and sustainable,” which he then works to implement. Rodas also partners with the private sector, which he believes is essential to advance progress in Guatemala.
“I am not just focused on short-term gains or political victories; I’m committed to creating a Guatemala that is prepared for the future, with a government that is efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of its people,” Rodas explains.
Through his position on the Agriculture Committee, he has worked with local farmers to improve food security in rural communities and advocates for sustainable farming practices. It is important to him to listen to the concerns of others when sharing his vision, well aware of many people’s skepticism and reluctance to embrace new approaches. Educating people on the benefits of the solutions he proposes and making sure they’re “inclusive and well-understood” have resulted in successes.
Rodas considers his leadership role in the effort to have Google open offices in Guatemala a significant accomplishment in his career. It also reinforces his commitment to bringing a technological transformation to the country. Rodas regards technology as the “great equalizer” and sees it as a viable method to enable all citizens to achieve success no matter their background. He currently leads the Presidential Forum for the Digital Transformation of the State of Guatemala.
Rodas has long advocated for the digital transformation of society. Technology creates a level playing field by giving people opportunities for education, business, and governance. By concentrating on long-term solutions and building the infrastructure to support sustainable economic and technological gains, he predicts a future where Guatemala is a regional leader and provides equal opportunities for every citizen.
“It’s my belief that by modernizing our public institutions and making them more efficient, transparent, and accessible, we can create a Guatemala where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive,” Rodas explains.
The policies that Rodas shapes and supports are meant to drive economic development that will encourage sustainable growth and innovation. He has an infrastructure plan which includes an interregional railway that would result in the creation of 200,000 jobs. It would also modernize urban mobility in Guatemala City while also improving regional connectivity.
“Ultimately, my vision is a Guatemala that is globally competitive, with a government and economy that empower its citizens and promote long-term prosperity,” Rodas says.
