IAB condemns the murder of Francisco Alejandro Leyva Aguilar in Mexico
The International Association of Broadcasting strongly condemns the murder of Francisco Alejandro Leyva Aguilar, a columnist and former director of the Oaxacan Radio and Television Corporation. The murder took place on Wednesday morning, July 22, in the municipality of San Pablo Etla in the state of Oaxaca.
IAB extends its deepest condolences to Leyva Aguilar's family, the Oaxacan Radio and Television Corporation, and the Oaxacan journalism community during this difficult time.
He is the seventh journalist murdered in Mexico this year, highlighting a pattern of sustained violence against the press and an alarming situation of impunity in a country where the practice of journalism has become a high-risk activity. In recent months, Leyva Aguilar had publicly denounced acts of harassment and intimidation by state authorities.
IAB expresses deep concern over repeated acts of violence against journalists and media outlets in Mexico. The association urges the relevant authorities to promptly conduct a thorough, independent, and impartial investigation to identify and punish those directly responsible for these crimes. The investigation should prioritize the journalists’ professional activities. According to the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression No. 9 of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, intimidation, threats, or violence against media professionals, as well as attacks against media outlets, constitute serious violations of fundamental rights and severely restrict freedom of expression. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of states to prevent, investigate, and punish these acts.
IAB reaffirms its commitment to defending freedom of expression and of the press in the Americas and calls for ensuring that no journalist ever loses their life while doing their job.
Montevideo, July 28, 2026
Montevideo, July 28, 2026