By NAN Contributor
News Americas, WASHINGTON, D.C., Fri. July 27, 2018: A bi-partisan resolution condemning the Daniel Ortega Regime of Nicaragua and murders and violence there, has passed the U.S. House of Congress.
HR 981, introduced by U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman Emeritus of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, condemning the intimidation, violence, persecution, and murders committed against the people of Nicaragua by the Ortega regime, passed the House Wednesday on a voice vote.
The House expressed full support for the Nicaraguan people in their pursuit of democracy and the rule of law in their nation and called on the Donald Trump administration to sanction Ortega regime officials under the Magnitsky Act who are responsible for the murders, arrests, and violence in Nicaragua.
“Today, this body is standing up for some of our most cherished values and ideals and we are unequivocally rejecting the Ortega regime’s abuses and its corruption,” commented the Cuban born lawmaker. “Today we can send a loud, unified and clear message that we are watching, we are acting, and we are supporting the aspirations of all freedom-loving Nicaraguans.”
The move comes as President Daniel Ortega has refused to bow to protesters’ demands that he step down.
He said during an interview with Fox TV this week that he will instead serve out his term until 2020. Ortega also said the deaths of about 300 people during three months of protests were caused by paramilitary groups.
Human rights groups, however, say armed groups loyal to the state are responsible for the deaths.
