Congressman Sires Condemns Continued Detention of Political Prisoners in Nicaragua

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, Congressman Sires, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Western Hemisphere, Civilian Security, and Trade, released the following statement regarding the Nicaraguan government’s failure to meet a June 18 deadline that had been agreed to with opposition groups and the Organization of American States for the release of all political prisoners.

“Ortega’s disregard for the deadline to release all political prisoners reaffirms that he has no plans to relinquish his authoritarian grip. According to human rights groups, Ortega’s security forces and thugs committed crimes against humanity during protests last year, killing over 300 people and locking up more than 700. Many of those released in recent months still remain under house arrest and are denied their basic right to free expression.

“The international community must be clear in conveying to Ortega that his repressive tactics will be met with a strong and unified response. I have been working with my colleagues in Congress to increase awareness about what is happening in Nicaragua and will continue to take steps to increase pressure on the Ortega regime, including supporting further sanctions targeting human rights violators. I stand with the courageous people of Nicaragua who are demanding a return to democracy.”