EU Urges Nicaragua to Hold 'Transparent, Inclusive, Credible' Elections

The European Union has called on Nicaragua to hold elections that are "transparent, inclusive, and credible," directly challenging Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega's recent assertion that the country would not hold further elections. The EU is closely monitoring the political situation and the "grave deterioration of fundamental rights" in Nicaragua, according to a statement from the bloc's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas.

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The European Union continues to closely observe the evolution of the political situation and the grave deterioration of fundamental rights in Nicaragua.

In its message, the EU urged Nicaraguan authorities to schedule elections as initially planned and ensure they are conducted transparently and inclusively, adhering to international standards. The European bloc reiterated its strong condemnation of the "systemic repression" by the Nicaraguan authorities. It also renewed its calls for the release of all political prisoners, the full restoration of the rule of law, and the return of international human rights organizations.

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to convene elections and ensure that they are held as initially planned and in a transparent, inclusive and credible manner, in accordance with international norms.

Furthermore, the EU emphasized the need for dialogue between the Nicaraguan government and the opposition to agree on necessary electoral reforms. Such reforms, the EU stated, would be crucial for advancing a democratic, peaceful, and negotiated solution to the country's ongoing political crisis. The EU affirmed its continued support for the Nicaraguan people's "legitimate aspiration for democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law."

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We reiterate our strong condemnation of the systemic repression exercised by the Nicaraguan authorities and will continue to support the people of Nicaragua in their aspiration for democracy.

Nicaragua's Foreign Ministry responded sharply to the EU's appeal, issuing a statement titled "We are not subjects." The ministry characterized the EU's call as "interventionist, imperialist, and characteristic of a mentality and practices rooted in a colonial past." The Nicaraguan government firmly rejected such claims, asserting its sovereignty and stating, "We remind you, in case you forget: We are not vassals of anyone."

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interventionist, imperialist, and characteristic of a mentality and practices rooted in a colonial past.