The murder of two journalists in Retalhuleu, Guatemala, has attracted the attention and also the condemnation of international organizations. Luis Almagro, Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), expressed concern and the need for an immediate investigation into this serious incident.
Through his account on a social network, Almagro said: “The murder of journalists is one of the most aberrational crimes against freedom of expression and democracy. Our condolences to their families. Justice must be done and investigated.”
Read also: Unanimous condemnation for the murder of communicators in Retalhuleu
Along with Almagro’s message, a comment by Pedro Vaca V., special rapporteur for Freedom of Expression of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) of the OAS, was attached. In his statement, Vaca V. stated: “#Guatemala I condemn and reject the murder of journalists Edin Alonso and Hugo Gutiérrez. Authorities must investigate crimes effectively and punish those responsible. The reports about buried, exiled and locked up journalists are worrying”.
The facts of the murder in Retalhuleu
According to the Guatemalan National Civil Police (PNC), the victims have been identified as Edin Frangeli Alonzo López, 36, and Hugo Rolando Gutiérrez Alonzo. Both were administrators of the White Horse News page and cousins to each other. The communicators were shot dead while returning from making a live broadcast.
The local community has highlighted the journalistic work of both in the Caballo Blanco subdivision, where they covered live events and also shared important information for the southwestern region of the country. Faced with this unfortunate fact, various media have shown their solidarity and have expressed their condolences.
This tragedy highlights the need for stricter measures to protect journalists and guarantee press freedom in the country. The international community will be attentive to the development of the investigations and hopes that justice will be done in this case.
