Washington, DC - The United States condemns the Ortega government’s recent arbitrary detention of six prominent student members of the National Dialogue. These students are the latest example of the thousands of citizens who are peacefully and democratically protesting government actions, only to be harassed, detained, disappeared, or even killed. Five of these students have been released.

We call for the release of all arbitrarily detained persons. We also call on the Ortega government to ensure the safety of all who choose to exercise their universal rights to freedom of speech and freedom of assembly.

All governments should promote democracy, good governance, and human rights for the greater welfare of their citizens. We will continue to stand by the people of Nicaragua and hold the Ortega government to account for its repression and violence.