Nicaragua Revokes Citizenship of 135 Expelled Individuals

Nicaragua has revoked the citizenship and seized the property of 135 individuals expelled after serving prison sentences for crimes against national sovereignty and promoting violence. This action follows their release under a deal involving the United States and Guatemala, with American authorities confirming no concessions were made for their release. The Supreme Court of Justice stated these actions are part of a broader crackdown on dissent by President Daniel Ortega's government, which has a history of imprisoning political opponents and shutting down civil society organizations. The United Nations condemned Nicaragua's human rights violations, noting that stripping citizenship renders individuals stateless, a violation of international law. The expelled prisoners face significant challenges in their new circumstances, feeling unmoored and struggling to survive. The U.S. has offered them legal avenues for residency as they temporarily stay in Guatemala before relocating.