UN Calls Out Inhumane Conditions for Imprisoned Guatemalan Journalist

The United Nations has raised alarm over the inhumane conditions journalist Jose Ruben Zamora faces in a Guatemalan prison, stating they may amount to torture. Arrested on money laundering charges, Zamora asserts he is a political prisoner. His solitary confinement and lack of medical care have severely impacted his health.

The United Nations has sounded the alarm over the inhumane conditions faced by journalist Jose Ruben Zamora in a Guatemalan prison, claiming the conditions could amount to torture. Zamora, arrested in July 2022 on money laundering charges, argues that he is imprisoned for political reasons.

Citing a panel of experts, the U.N. reported that Zamora's detention conditions involve nearly 20 months of solitary confinement in almost constant darkness, sleep deprivation, and forced nudity. These conditions have led to serious declines in Zamora's physical and mental health, including rapid weight loss and worsening eyesight, aggravated by a pre-existing neurological disorder.

Zamora, who founded the now-defunct elPeriodico newspaper, has requested house arrest. While a judge has granted him permission to leave the prison, he remains confined due to separate obstruction of justice charges. U.N. experts have urged Guatemalan authorities to urgently address the allegations of inhumane treatment.

(With inputs from agencies.)