Guatemala's former first lady Sandra Torres has been barred from seeking the presidency in the upcoming September 11 election.

The constitutional court's president Alejandro Maldonado explained the tribunal's decision Monday, saying Torres was married to President Alvaro Colom most of his term before their divorce earlier this year. Guatemala's constitution prohibits family members from succeeding the president. Mr. Colom is not eligible to seek another term.

The constitutional court's decision cannot be challenged. The ruling National Union for Hope party is now left without a presidential candidate for Guatemala's upcoming election.