Guatemalan Journalist Nelton Rivera Targeted by Coordinated Smear Campaign

April 08, 2025 – Guatemala – 

Nelton Rivera, a prominent Guatemalan journalist and co-founder of Prensa Comunitaria, is facing a concerted online smear and threat campaign aimed at discrediting his investigative reporting on corruption. Since February 2025, social media accounts known as “net centers” have been disseminating manipulated images and false narratives about Rivera, including doctored photos depicting him behind bars alongside imprisoned journalist José Rubén Zamora. These posts falsely accuse Rivera of collaborating with organized crime and call for his arrest, escalating in frequency and intensity through March and April.

The smear campaign coincides with Rivera’s critical reporting on corruption involving government officials and state-linked entities. Investigations by Prensa Comunitaria and its investigative unit, Ruda, have exposed illicit activities and abuses of power, making Rivera a target for those seeking to suppress independent journalism.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has condemned the coordinated attacks, urging Guatemalan authorities to investigate and halt the online harassment. CPJ emphasizes that such tactics are part of a broader strategy to criminalize independent journalism and intimidate reporters into silence.

In response to the attacks, various national and international organizations, including human rights defenders and press freedom advocates, have expressed solidarity with Rivera and Prensa Comunitaria. They have denounced the systematic threats and harassment, highlighting the urgent need to protect journalists and uphold freedom of expression in Guatemala.

Despite the mounting pressure, Rivera remains steadfast in his commitment to investigative journalism, continuing to expose corruption and defend the public’s right to know. His resilience underscores the vital role of independent media in holding power to account, even in the face of systemic efforts to silence dissent.

Reference –

Guatemalan journalist Nelton Rivera targeted by smear, threat campaign

Guatemala’s Nelton Rivera faces cyberattack campaign in response to corruption reporting

Guatemalan journalist Nelton Rivera targeted by smear, threat campaign