Nicaragua Roundup: Repression of the church, political prisoners banished, news foreign minister
Suppressing dissent
The Nicaraguan government is undertaking an extensive campaign to suppress dissent by revoking the legal status of 1,500 nonprofit organisations, primarily targeting evangelical churches that do not align with the authoritarian regime. This move forms part of a broader strategy to control civil society and eliminate opposition, AAS reports.
VP Rosario Murillo supports RT amid US sanctions
Vice President Rosario Murillo voiced her support for Margarita Simonyan of RT following the US sanctions imposed on prominent Russian media figures, accusing them of orchestrating a disinformation campaign that aims to impact the upcoming US elections. According to Intellinews, in her communication, Murillo reframed these sanctions as an acknowledgement of their work in promoting “Justice, Truth, Peace, and Love,” thereby attempting to portray the punitive measures as politically motivated rather than justified. Despite facing bans in other regions, RT has expanded its influence within Latin America, forming strategic partnerships with nations like Nicaragua. However, this growth occurs amidst escalating repression of independent journalism, resulting in the flight of many Nicaraguan journalists, which further strengthens the Ortega regime's grip over media representation.
Dissolution of Episcopal Diocese of Nicaragua
In a continuation of the regime's crackdown on religious institutions, the Nicaraguan government announced the dissolution of the Episcopal Diocese of Nicaragua along with the confiscation of its assets. This announcement follows the cancellation of legal status for over 5,500 civil society organisations since 2018, including numerous religious entities. The Episcopal Diocese, established in 1742, has historically provided educational and social support services. The repressive actions have drawn criticism from various organisations, notably Christian Solidarity Worldwide, which highlights concerns regarding the ramifications for community services and religious freedoms, reports Anglican Ink.
135 political prisoners released
The plight of 135 Nicaraguans, exiled to Guatemala after enduring brutal incarceration under the Ortega-Murillo rule, illustrates the regime's oppressive practices. Former prisoners recounted experiences of both physical and psychological torture, substandard living conditions, and threats directed at their families. Notably, Jose Enrique Sanchez detailed his 17-month ordeal in La Modelo prison, characterised by violence and intimidation, while others, such as Jared Ramirez and Oscar Parrilla, corroborated stories of severe mistreatment and mental strain during their captivity. Exiled individuals like Adriana Zapata and Isaias Ruiz reflected on the ongoing effects of their traumatic experiences and the lack of basic rights during detention while expressing understandable concerns for the safety of their loved ones remaining in Nicaragua. The narrative highlights not only the immediate consequences of state violence but also the enduring psychological toll on those who escape its grasp as reported by Confidencial.
New foreign minister
In a significant political reshuffle, Valdrack Jaentschke has been appointed as Nicaragua's new Foreign Minister, taking over from Denis Moncada, who is vacating the position due to health issues but will continue to serve as a presidential advisor on international affairs. Havana Times reports that Jaentschke's previous experience includes key diplomatic roles, thus continuing the pattern of loyalty within the Ortega administration, as this marks the third recent change in the position since 2007.
