A Guatemalan journalist who risked his life to expose government corruption and human rights abuses, earning him international recognition and awards.
Jos Rubn Zamora, a renowned Guatemalan industrial engineer, entrepreneur, and journalist, is best known for founding three prominent newspapers in Guatemala: Siglo Veintiuno (21st Century) in 1990, El Peridico (The Newspaper) in 1996, and Nuestro Diario (Our Daily) in 1998. Through his fearless reporting, Zamora has exposed corruption and advocated for judicial and tax reforms, earning him numerous international prizes and distinctions.
Zamora's passion for journalism started at a young age. At 17, he began working as a reporter for La Hora (The Hour), a newspaper owned by his family. He later pursued higher education, earning degrees in industrial engineering and business administration. In 1985, Zamora founded ANC, a documentary and news production company.
In 1990, Zamora founded Siglo Veintiuno, which quickly gained a reputation for its in-depth reporting on sensitive topics, including corruption and government malfeasance. This was followed by the launch of El Peridico in 1996 and Nuestro Diario in 1998, solidifying Zamora's position as a prominent figure in Guatemalan journalism.
Zamora's bravery and commitment to free press have earned him numerous international accolades, including:
Zamora's fearless reporting has not come without risks. He has been threatened, attacked, and even held hostage in his home in 2003 and kidnapped and beaten in 2008. In 2022, Zamora was arrested on charges of money laundering, which many believe was a retaliation against his coverage of corruption in the Guatemalan government.
In 2023, Zamora was sentenced to 6 years in prison, but the conviction was overturned, and a new trial was ordered. On May 15, 2024, a court ordered his release, ruling that he was not considered a flight risk or a threat to the investigation.
Jos Rubn Zamora's unwavering commitment to free press and his bravery in the face of adversity have made him a hero in the world of journalism. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope for journalists and freedom of expression advocates around the world.
67 Years Old
A Guatemalan indigenous rights activist and politician who fought for social justice and peace, particularly for the rights of indigenous peoples, and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1992.
Born in 1926
A Guatemalan dictator who ruled with an iron fist, responsible for numerous human rights atrocities, including genocide against the Mayan population. His regime was marked by brutal suppression of opposition and dissent.
83 Years Old
First democratically elected president of Guatemala after a series of military dictatorships, known for promoting democracy and human rights in his country.
