José Rubén Zamora to be Released to House Detention After Over 800 Days in Jail
After enduring more than 810 days in a cramped prison cell, with only his books for solace, one of Guatemala’s most esteemed journalists is set to be released to house detention this weekend. This decision comes as he awaits the outcome of his appeal for a new trial.
The ruling was made by a judge on Friday, who determined that José Rubén Zamora, the founder and publisher of elPeriódico, a prominent newspaper known for its rigorous investigations into government corruption, had spent an excessive amount of time incarcerated without a trial. The judge also noted that Zamora posed little risk of fleeing the country. In his statement to the court, the 68-year-old journalist expressed his commitment to his homeland, asserting, “I have never wanted to flee Guatemala, which is also my country, not just the country of the authorities in power.” He further emphasized his willingness to honor the trust placed in him.
Zamora was convicted last year on charges of money laundering, which resulted in a sentence of up to six years in prison along with a hefty fine of approximately $40,000. He has consistently maintained that these charges were politically motivated, stemming from his newspaper’s relentless focus on exposing public corruption.
Under the conditions of his house detention, Zamora will be required to report periodically to law enforcement and remain confined to his residence. His trial had been marred by significant irregularities, raising widespread concerns regarding its fairness. Observers have viewed this case as part of a broader effort to undermine democracy and silence critical journalism during the administration of former President Alejandro Giammattei.
- Duration in prison: Over 810 days
- Charges: Money laundering
- Sentence: Up to six years in prison
- Fine: Approximately $40,000
- Conditions of house detention: Periodic reporting to authorities and confinement to home
- Context: Viewed as politically motivated charges against a critical journalist