The Organization of American States (OAS) Permanent Council has voiced strong condemnation of the actions by Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo. Ambassador Francisco O. Mora highlighted ongoing human rights abuses and suppression of democracy in Nicaragua, noting the "utter disdain for the Charter of the OAS and the Inter-American Democratic Charter."
Ambassador Mora called on Nicaragua's leadership to restore democracy and release those imprisoned for advocating free elections, including Catholic Bishop Rolando Álvarez. He expressed concern over systematic targeting of religious organizations, specifically citing attacks on Caritas for providing social services.
In recent years, Ortega and Murillo have targeted members of the Catholic Church, revoking media licenses and freezing bank accounts linked to church entities. Secretary of State Blinken designated Nicaragua as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act.
Educational institutions have also faced repression, with closures affecting thousands of students at places like Central American University (UCA). The Jesuit community associated with UCA has been subjected to intimidation due to its support for student protestors from 2018.
The Indigenous YATAMA party was recently affected when two members were detained without due process. Their legal status was revoked, along with closures of YATAMA-run radio stations.
The OAS Permanent Council adopted a resolution urging Nicaragua to respect human rights including freedom of thought, expression, religion, association, peaceful assembly, education, and work. The council rejected repressive measures against educational institutions and religious entities.
"An open environment for free and fair elections" is urged by the United States as part of efforts to engage constructively with Nicaragua in restoring democratic governance.