News Americas, New York, NY, September 5, 2024: The United States has successfully secured the release of 135 political prisoners held by Nicaraguan authorities on humanitarian grounds. These individuals were unjustly imprisoned for exercising their fundamental freedoms. Today they arrived safely and voluntarily in Guatemala, where they were received by President Bernardo Arévalo and his administration.
Among those released are human rights defenders, Catholic laymen and 13 members associated with Mountain Gateway, a Texas-based religious organization. These individuals were banned for peacefully expressing their beliefs, participating in assemblies or practicing their religion. Now free, they face the challenging task of rebuilding their lives in a new country and will have the opportunity to apply for legal pathways to resettle in the United States or other countries.
The US government today expressed its gratitude to the leadership of Guatemala for their vital support in this effort.
Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, Vice President Rosario Murillo and their associates have been widely criticized for ongoing human rights violations, including the suppression of political dissent, unjust imprisonment, and property seizures. The international community continues to call for the unconditional release of all political prisoners in Nicaragua and the restoration of democracy where citizens can freely exercise their fundamental rights.
The US and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken today reaffirmed their commitment to support the people of Nicaragua in their pursuit of a future free of fear and persecution.
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