Congresswoman Torres Statement on Rescheduling of Guatemalan Journalist José Rubén Zamora’s Trial
Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Norma J. Torres (CA-35) – a senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations – issued the following statement after well-respected, Guatemalan journalist José Rubén Zamora – imprisoned for over 550 days – had the opening hearing in his trial rescheduled until February 20th:
“There cannot truly be democracy without a free press. José Rubén Zamora remains wrongfully imprisoned for simply doing his job as a journalist and shining a light on the inner workings of his government. Zamora deserves to be free and at home with his family, and there must be a free, fair, and speedy trial to address these trumped-up charges.
“Those fighting for freedom and democracy in Guatemala deserve our strong support as they risk their lives and livelihoods for a better future. I will continue to speak out in defense of Zamora’s basic rights, including his right to provide a defense in court, be treated with basic dignity, and access medical care. The rule of law and the future of independent journalism in Guatemala remain at risk.”