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APG speaks out against attack on Zacapa journalist’s house
Zacapa journalist Carlos Monroy reported an armed attack on his home.
A journalist from Zacapa reported an armed attack on his home, which was repelled by the APG. (Photo reference. Prensa Libre: Unsplash)
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The Guatemalan Journalists Association published a statement rejecting an armed attack on the home of journalist Carlos Monroy.
According to the APG, shots were fired at the journalist’s house on the night of Monday, September 2 of this year. Carlos Monroy.
In the publication, the APG indicates that the attack was apparently perpetrated by a person who lives near the communicator and that he would have been upset by a note published by Monroy.
The entity asks the National Civil Police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office to provide protective measures in favor of the communicator and that what happened be investigated in order to carry out the necessary criminal repercussions.
“Given the lack of tolerance of citizens and some public officials, the APG Press Freedom Commission reiterates the need to implement protection mechanisms” for journalists.
It also calls on the Judiciary to act in a “prompt and effective“to prevent loss of life.
In addition, the Ministry of the Interior requests that “the case instructions“so that action is taken and the weight of justice falls on the person responsible for shooting at the journalist’s house.
“Journalists, like any other citizen, are protected by the Political Constitution of the Republic to freely exercise their profession and therefore should not allow pressure or intimidations of any sector of the population for the practice of this human right,” insisted the APG.
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#APG #speaks #attack #Zacapa #journalists #house
APG Speaks Out Against Attack on Zacapa Journalist’s House
In a troubling incident that has shaken the journalistic community in Guatemala, the Guatemalan Journalists Association (APG) has condemned an armed attack on the home of journalist Carlos Monroy in Zacapa. This incident highlights ongoing issues of press freedom and safety in a region where journalists often face threats and intimidation.
Overview of the Incident
On the night of September 2, 2024, shots were fired at Carlos Monroy’s residence. According to reports, the attack appears to have been initiated by an individual living in proximity to Monroy, who allegedly took offense to a news story published by the journalist. The APG’s swift condemnation underscores the severity of the assault and its implications for press freedom in Guatemala.
The Response from the APG
The APG promptly issued a statement denouncing the attack and called upon both the National Civil Police and the Public Prosecutor’s Office to implement protective measures for Monroy. They urged for a thorough investigation of the incident to ensure that the perpetrator faces justice. The organization’s response was clear: “Given the lack of tolerance of citizens and some public officials, the APG Press Freedom Commission reiterates the need to implement protection mechanisms for journalists.”
The APG’s statement reflects a broader concern about the dangers journalists face in Guatemala. The association pressed the judiciary for immediate action to prevent further incidents from occurring and to protect the lives of those in the media.
Importance of Journalistic Freedom
The attack on Carlos Monroy is not an isolated incident but part of a worrying trend of violence against journalists in Guatemala. The APG emphasized the necessity for journalists to be shielded from pressure and intimidation, as enshrined in the Political Constitution of the Republic. They noted that exercising the right to free expression should never come at the cost of safety and that journalists are entitled to work without fear of reprisal.
Statistical Backdrop
According to recent research by various press freedom organizations, Guatemala ranks poorly in terms of journalist safety. The consistent threat of violence has led to self-censorship among reporters, significantly impacting the flow of information and the public’s right to know. Such incidents underscore the crucial need for protective measures for media professionals.
Call to Action
In their urgent plea, the APG not only called for justice for Carlos Monroy but also highlighted the collective responsibility of both governmental and non-governmental organizations to foster an environment where press freedom can flourish. They requested that:
- The National Civil Police take immediate and robust action to protect journalists.
- The Public Prosecutor’s Office investigate the attack thoroughly and bring the perpetrator to justice.
- The Ministry of the Interior expedite the procedures necessary for legal action regarding the attack.
Conclusion
The armed attack on journalist Carlos Monroy serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing dangers faced by media professionals in Guatemala. It is crucial for institutions, civil society, and the international community to stand with journalists and demand the protection of their rights. Ultimately, a healthy democracy relies on a vibrant and safe press, capable of informing the public without fear of violence or intimidation.
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