The governments of the United States and Guatemala jointly announced on Thursday that Nicaragua has released 135 political prisoners on humanitarian grounds. The decision comes after prolonged negotiations between the US and Nicaragua. This development follows similar events earlier in the year when the US welcomed over 200 political prisoners from Nicaragua.
The released individuals include human rights defenders, religious leaders, and laypeople. According to a joint statement by the US and Guatemala, both countries, along with US humanitarian partners, will provide the released prisoners with temporary medical assistance, food, and lodging. The statement also indicated that these individuals would have the opportunity to apply for entry to the US or other states through lawful pathways while in Guatemala.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called the release a step towards addressing human rights abuses in Nicaragua. He highlighted the ongoing situation in Nicaragua, where President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo have been accused of systematically violating human rights by stifling dissent, jailing opponents, and seizing property.
The US embassy in Guatemala commended Guatemala for agreeing to host the released prisoners and urged Nicaragua to halt further detentions. This latest release follows a February 9, 2023 event, where Nicaragua released 222 political prisoners to the US.
Additionally, a recent UN report has criticized the deteriorating human rights situation in Nicaragua, documenting violations such as unfair trials, inhumane conditions, and torture.
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