Nicaraguan Bishop Silvio Báez Calls for Accountability for Human Rights Violations by Ortega Regime
Auxiliary Bishop of Managua, Silvio Báez, currently in exile and stripped of his Nicaraguan nationality, has publicly stated that individuals responsible for corruption, torture, and other crimes must face legal consequences. Speaking during a homily in a U.S. church, Báez emphasized that divine mercy should not be used as an excuse to avoid punishment. He advocated for independent tribunals, guaranteed defense, and due process for all accused. Báez, a prominent critic of the Nicaraguan government, left the country in 2019 due to security concerns, following instructions from Pope Francis. His remarks come amidst ongoing accusations against the regime of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, which include arbitrary detentions, political persecution, restrictions on freedom of expression, and limitations on religious activities. These accusations have been made by international organizations, human rights groups, and opposition sectors since protests began in April 2018.