A Guatemalan journalist, founder of El Periódico, celebrated his transfer to house arrest after being jailed for over two years due to his newspaper's anti-corruption investigations. The journalist, aged 68, had been imprisoned since July 2022 on charges of money laundering, which led to a six-year sentence in June 2023. However, the sentence was overturned due to procedural errors, and he is awaiting a possible retrial.
The journalist's son expressed relief at his father's release, emphasizing the importance of defending freedom of the press in Guatemala. International organizations had been advocating for his release, citing concerns that he was targeted for his investigative reporting on those in power.
During his imprisonment, the journalist reported experiencing psychological torture, including isolation and sleep deprivation. Following his release, he expressed a mix of happiness and calmness, noting his intention to prioritize his health by seeking medical attention.
The Guatemalan President welcomed the journalist's release, signaling a positive step towards justice. The prosecutor's office, which had accused the journalist, expressed hope that he would face justice despite being freed.
Several journalists and columnists from El Periódico have left the country amid ongoing investigations. The case highlights the challenges faced by journalists reporting on corruption and the importance of upholding press freedom.
