The Nicaraguan government, led by President Daniel Ortega, has intensified its crackdown on religious bodies by closing numerous nonprofits and implementing new tax regulations targeting churches. Critics assert that this is a maneuvre to financially suffocate the Church and suppress dissent. Noteworthy religious institutions, including schools, are being transferred to state control, fueling growing concerns for religious freedom and autonomy in the country.
The Nicaraguan government has intensified its repression of religious institutions, particularly targeting the Catholic Church, by closing hundreds of nonprofit organizations. In a recent decree issued by President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo, 1,500 civic organizations were shuttered for failing to present financial reports over several years, with all associated properties seized by the state. This action is seen as a direct attempt to undermine the Church’s influence, as churches are viewed as opposition bases against the Ortega administration. The crackdown includes many Christian denominations and notable Catholic entities, such as the Diocese of Granada’s Caritas. Religious schools in Nicaragua, like those operated by the congregation Madre del Divino Pastor, face government takeover, with the Ministry of Education stepping in to manage those institutions. Reports indicate that the principal of one school was barred from returning to the country after being out of the country during the government’s announcement. Further measures include the revocation of legal status for an additional 151 civic groups and a requirement that remaining organizations establish alliances with state entities. The government also revised tax laws, eliminating exemptions for religious bodies, mandating tax reporting and payments that could reach 30%. Critics argue that these actions aim to financially cripple the Churches, with some members of the clergy expressing concerns that this strategy is designed to suppress dissent and impose a singular narrative. Furthermore, religious figures such as Father José María Tojeira warn that these regulations serve to weaken opposition and suppress diverse ideas, complicating the already dire situation for the Church in Nicaragua. Political analysts note that the scrutiny over church finances constitutes a new low in Ortega’s oppressive regime. As concerns grow, even the Vatican is monitoring developments in Nicaragua. Pope Francis called upon the Nicaraguan people to maintain hope and encouraged them to seek spiritual guidance during these challenging times. The ongoing repression and governmental control over religious institutions signify a deeper crisis regarding freedom and human rights in Nicaragua, further polarizing the nation.
The context of the article revolves around the increasing suppression of religious organizations in Nicaragua, particularly under the rule of President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo. Since 2018, the Ortega regime has systematically closed numerous NGOs and civic organizations, citing financial mismanagement as justification. This scrutiny has expanded to encompass religious entities, which are perceived as supporters of political opposition. With recent tax law changes, churches now face new financial burdens that inhibit their operational efficacy. The situation reflects broader tensions between the government’s authoritarian practices and the Church’s role in society, particularly as an alternative voice to the regime.
In summary, the Nicaraguan government’s recent initiatives to close and regulate religious organizations represent a significant escalation in its ongoing repression of dissenting voices. This concerted effort is seen as a method to not only regain control over civic society but also to financially and institutionally weaken religious bodies that embody opposition to Ortega’s administration. As international attention grows, the region remains apprehensive about the implications of these actions for freedom of expression and religious autonomy in Nicaragua.
Original Source: cruxnow.com
