Ecuador government accused of retaliating against journalist over Progen contracts

Ecuavisa reported that journalist Hernán Higuera faced government retaliation after publishing investigations into contracts signed with US‑based Progen for generators during the 2024 electricity crisis. Following the reports, Higuera’s wife was dismissed from a public‑sector job and his son, a medical student, had his hospital placement suspended. The contracts, worth an advance of about $104 million, are under criminal investigation for alleged misappropriation of public funds, with 21 people already processed.

The National Anticorruption Commission (CNA) publicly warned of an “atmosphere of persecution” against journalists covering the case, calling for protection of press freedom. Several press‑freedom groups also condemned the actions against Higuera and his family, urging the state to respect media independence.