U.S. Secures Release of 135 Nicaraguan Political Prisoners; They Arrive in Guatemala for Asylum

The U.S. government has announced the release of 135 political prisoners from Nicaragua, who will now seek entry into the United States or other countries. This decision was made on humanitarian grounds, emphasizing the importance of free expression, association, and the practice of religion. The Nicaraguan government reportedly received nothing in exchange for the release, with no change in U.S. policy towards President Daniel Ortega's government. The release and subsequent travel of the prisoners were executed swiftly, highlighting continued unjust detainment in Nicaragua.

Prisoners' conditions and backgrounds

The U.S. diplomat expressed concern about the "true pettiness and cruelty" exhibited by Ortega's government, as well as the difficult conditions faced by the prisoners. Among the released individuals were members of a Texas-based religious charity, Catholic laypeople, and students. Guatema

lan President Bernardo Arévalo agreed to host the Nicaraguans as they apply for entry to the U.S.

Nicaraguan human rights advocate Haydeé Castillo recognized the release as a victory for the people's resistance, although highlighting the forced displacement from their country. The release also marked the end of nine months of imprisonment for 13 members of a Texas-based religious organization, as confirmed by theMountain Gateway organization.