Release of Nicaraguan Political Prisoners
The U.S. government secured the release of 135 Nicaraguan political prisoners who arrived in Guatemala and will apply for entry to the United States or other countries. The prisoners were released on humanitarian grounds, and the Nicaraguan government received nothing in exchange. The U.S. continues to pressure the government of President Daniel Ortega for unjustly detaining people.
Key Points
- 135 political prisoners released
- Negotiation signaled no change in U.S. policy toward Nicaragua
- Government of President Ortega accused of pettiness and cruelty
- Some prisoners victims of torture
Pros
- 135 Nicaraguan political prisoners released
- Released on humanitarian grounds
- No exchange for release
Cons
- Prisoners face forced displacement from their country
- Some prisoners still remain detained
- Government of President Daniel Ortega accused of unjustly detaining people