Nicaragua Releases Political Prisoners, Including Pastors

Eleven pastors affiliated with Mountain Gateway, a Texas-based Christian organization, were unjustly imprisoned in Nicaragua on dubious charges of money laundering and organized crime, receiving sentences of 12 to 15 years with exorbitant fines. U.S. lawmakers, including Rep. Robert Aderholt, played a significant role in advocating for their release, which was finally secured after months of pressure from both Congress and the Biden Administration. The pastors were released on humanitarian grounds and are now safe in Guatemala, where they will be processed as refugees. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan emphasized the importance of religious freedom, stating that no one should be punished for expressing their faith. The Nicaraguan government, led by President Daniel Ortega, has faced criticism for its systematic persecution of religious groups, particularly following large evangelical events. This incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding religious freedom and political dissent in Nicaragua.