Nicaragua Strips Citizenship and Properties of Expelled Critics

Nicaragua announced the revocation of citizenship and seizure of property for 135 expelled prisoners who opposed the government. The Supreme Court cited charges against national sovereignty and promoting violence. Released under a deal with the US and Guatemala, these individuals face statelessness and hardship. International criticism mounts.

Nicaragua announced on Tuesday the revocation of citizenship and seizure of property for 135 people expelled last week. The Supreme Court of Justice stated that these individuals were convicted of attacks on national sovereignty and promoting violence.

The prisoners were freed under a deal involving the United States and Guatemala. Details of the agreement remain undisclosed, but American authorities insist no concessions were made. This follows a 2022 initiative where 222 political detainees were released and later stripped of citizenship.

Expelled former prisoners, now facing statelessness, struggle to survive. Analysts believe this move enables the government to suppress dissent while dodging international criticism. The U.S. has offered expedited refugee procedures for the group. A U.N. report condemned Nicaragua's human rights abuses and highlighted its judicial shortcomings.

(With inputs from agencies.)