Guatemalan Journalist José Rubén Zamora Released from Prison to House Arrest
José Rubén Zamora, a prominent Guatemalan journalist and former director of the newspaper elPeriódico, has been released from Mariscal Zavala military prison and placed under house arrest after spending 812 days in detention. A court ruling on Friday granted him this measure, citing human rights concerns due to the excessive duration of his imprisonment. Zamora faces charges related to money laundering and obstruction of justice, which he claims are politically motivated, stemming from his investigations into corruption under former President Alejandro Giammattei's administration.
Zamora expressed his gratitude for the support he received from international press organizations and human rights advocates.
I feel extraordinarily happy,
he stated, wearing a white shirt and jeans as he addressed journalists outside the prison. Despite his release, Zamora remains cautious about the future, fearing further legal actions against him.
I think they are going to try to lock me up again,
he warned, emphasizing his resilience and determination to continue advocating for press freedom in Guatemala.
The ruling was celebrated by many, including former Human Rights Ombudsman Jorge De León and Zamora's cousin, journalist Gonzalo Marroquín, who viewed it as a victory for justice and freedom of expression. Outside the prison, supporters gathered, highlighting the broader implications of Zamora's imprisonment on free speech in Guatemala. Berta Méndez, a local auditor, remarked,
The imprisonment of not only José Rubén but of many others has had an effect on us all.
The judge, Erick García, mandated that Zamora cannot leave the country without authorization and must report for biometric controls every eight days. This ruling comes amid ongoing concerns regarding the integrity of the Guatemalan judiciary, particularly following the recent leadership changes in the courts.
Ongoing Legal Challenges and International Support
Zamora's legal troubles began in July 2022, leading to a conviction in June 2023 for money laundering, which was later overturned by a Court of Appeals this October, ordering a retrial. Despite his release from prison, he remains under scrutiny, as the Public Prosecutor's Office has indicated the possibility of further investigations against him. Amnesty International and other organizations have condemned the legal actions against Zamora, viewing them as part of a broader campaign to suppress dissent and intimidate journalists in Guatemala.
President Bernardo Arévalo also commented on the situation, expressing hope for a turning point in the justice system.
Justice is beginning to arrive, the dark cycle is about to end,
he wrote on social media, reflecting the ongoing struggle for judicial independence and the protection of press freedom in the country. As Zamora begins this new chapter under house arrest, the international community continues to advocate for his rights and the rights of journalists facing similar challenges in Guatemala.
