Paulina Chavez
Press Secretary
[email protected]
Chairman Curtis, Ranking Member Kaine, and members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to address this hearing on “Nicaragua’s Political Crisis.” I lived and worked in Nicaragua for seven years, and in 2018, I witnessed firsthand the human rights violations that shook the country.
Standing with the brave Nicaraguan people in defense of freedom and democracy reflects our nation’s most cherished values. I’m grateful to have this opportunity to join you in shining a light on the assault on democracy in Nicaragua. This hearing represents a moral imperative, a strategic necessity, and a national security priority.
On July 19, President Ortega announced the elimination of elections, brazenly confirming he has no intention of maintaining even the pretense of democracy. But the erasure of fundamental freedoms did not happen overnight.
For the past two decades, President Ortega and Co-President and wife, Rosario Murillo have hollowed out institutions, consolidated a family dynasty that echoes the Somoza era, and dismantled democracy. The duo has clung onto power by unleashing a brutal campaign of repression, arbitrary detention and forced disappearance; confiscation of property, including of U.S. citizens; denationalization and forced exile.
A countless number of Nicaraguans have been directly affected by their ongoing repression, including 452 Nicaraguans stripped of their citizenship, such as independent journalist Luis Galeano; scores of exiles; and the remaining estimated 68 political prisoners, including Bishop Mata.
Washington has good reason to care about what’s happening in Nicaragua. The country has become fertile terrain for China and Russia—just 2,000 miles from our southern border.
At the United Nations General Assembly last week, Nicaragua’s foreign minister endorsed the policies of both of their strategic allies; Iran is also considered a close ally.
In addition, the regime’s growing pattern of transnational repression poses regional security threats. The 2025 assassination of retired Nicaraguan Army Major Roberto Samcam in Costa Rica, underscores this growing threat.
According to the UN Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua, these cases are not isolated incidents. Their latest report said that violations investigated since 2018—including murder, torture, and transnational persecution on political grounds—amount to crimes against humanity.
Ortega’s recent announcement makes it clear that the regime no longer believes it needs to maintain the façade of electoral democracy. Yet the autocratic arrogance should not be mistaken for strength. In fact, it may serve as a sign that Ortega’s eventual succession will represent a moment of vulnerability.
Now is the time to act. NDI applauds the Senate’s bipartisan REFORMAR Act to enhance sanctions on economic sectors generating revenue for the Ortega family. Congress can go further by targeting the intermediaries and corporate enablers that allow the regime to evade sanctions, especially in the gold sector.
The United States should scrutinize China’s expansion into ports and telecommunications, Russia’s satellite facilities in Managua, and both countries’ police training activities. As China and Russia deepen their foothold in Nicaragua, action is urgently needed.
The hearing is timely, in light of the Organization of American States’ consultation of foreign ministers this week.
It brings a welcome opportunity to coordinate regional action under the OAS Charter and the Inter-American Democratic Charter—which affirm representative democracy as essential for peace and stability.
Member countries should use all tools at their disposal to pressure Nicaragua into concrete, verifiable steps toward the restoration of democracy and fundamental freedoms, including the release of all political prisoners, the restoration of nationality and a pathway to credible elections.
Despite relentless repression, opposition members inside the country and in exile are building consensus around a peaceful democratic future. The United States should renew and sustain assistance to democratic actors so they are prepared when a political opening emerges.
At NDI, we know that when people have the choice, they choose democracy. But right now, Nicaraguans do not have a choice.
Thank you again for the opportunity to testify. I look forward to your questions.
