Nicaraguan Bishop Decries Oppression and Exile

Why This Matters: The Nicaraguan government's actions are causing a humanitarian crisis, violating human rights, and stifling religious freedom.

Silvio Báez, the Nicaraguan auxiliary bishop of Managua, has been a vocal critic of President Daniel Ortega's government. Since being exiled in 2019 on the orders of Pope Francis due to safety concerns, Báez has continued to speak out against the oppressive policies in Nicaragua.

Background:

The Nicaraguan government, under President Ortega, has been increasingly authoritarian, cracking down on dissent and opposition. This has led to a mass exodus of Nicaraguans fleeing political persecution and economic hardship. The Catholic Church, which has often served as a moral voice and refuge, has faced increasing hostility from the government, including property confiscations, restrictions on religious activities, and the expulsion of clergy.

Current Situation:

In a recent homily delivered in Miami, Florida, Báez condemned the "false peace" promoted by the Ortega regime, which he says is maintained through fear and force. He highlighted the fact that hundreds of thousands of Nicaraguans have been forced into exile and that the government has systematically targeted the Catholic Church.

The government has prohibited thousands of religious processions, spied on expatriates, suspended consulate services, and denied passport renewals, effectively rendering many citizens stateless. Furthermore, a constitutional reform in 2025 allows the state to strip citizenship from anyone deemed a threat to "national sovereignty."

Impact:

The crackdown has had a devastating impact on Nicaraguan society, leading to widespread suffering and a breakdown of social cohesion. The exodus of so many citizens has created a brain drain, while the attacks on the Church undermine a vital institution that provides social services and spiritual guidance.

How to Prepare:

Who This Affects Most:

This situation affects Nicaraguans both within the country and in exile, particularly those who are critical of the government or who belong to religious organizations. It also impacts the broader international community, which has a responsibility to uphold human rights and the rule of law.

Q: Why is Bishop Báez in exile?

Bishop Báez was asked to leave Nicaragua by Pope Francis in 2019 due to security concerns related to his criticism of the Ortega regime.

Q: What are some of the specific actions the Nicaraguan government has taken against the Catholic Church?

The government has confiscated church properties, prohibited priest ordinations, and expelled clergy members.

Q: How many Nicaraguans have been forced into exile?

Over 800,000 Nicaraguans have been forced into exile between April 2018 and November 2025.

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