Guatemalan journalist Jose Zamora, founder of the now-defunct elPeriodico newspaper, has been granted house arrest by Judge Erick Garcia after spending more than 800 days in prison. The ruling, issued on Friday, marks a significant development in a case that has drawn international attention to press freedom issues in Guatemala.
Zamora, known for his critical reporting on successive Guatemalan governments, was arrested in July 2022 on money laundering charges. He has consistently maintained that he is a political prisoner, targeted for his journalistic work.
In 2023, Zamora was sentenced to six years in prison for money laundering. However, an appeals court later overturned this conviction and ordered a new trial to be held in 2025. Judge Garcia’s decision to grant house arrest was based on the argument that Zamora’s time in preventative detention had reached its limit, in accordance with human rights standards.
“We are imposing house arrest,” Judge Garcia stated in his ruling. “He is also forbidden to leave the country without judicial authorization.” Zamora expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating, “I am very satisfied. I appreciate what is happening.”
The case has drawn international scrutiny, with the United Nations in August reporting that Zamora was being held in conditions that may amount to torture. The UN called on Guatemalan authorities to address allegations of inhumane conditions, citing a report from a panel of experts.
Zamora’s transition to house arrest comes amid ongoing concerns about press freedom and the treatment of journalists in Guatemala. The case has been seen by many as a test of the country’s commitment to protecting journalistic integrity and freedom of expression.
Source: REUTERS
