Nicaraguan Teachers Face Surveillance, Political Pressure, and Dismissals

Nicaraguan teachers are living under a cloud of surveillance and political pressure, fearing job loss despite the government's official celebration of National Teacher's Day. While the regime of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo marked the occasion with ceremonies and a 1,000 córdoba bonus, educators describe a climate of fear and control. Many feel compelled to comply with political directives simply to keep their jobs.

Since the 2018 sociopolitical crisis, the Ministry of Education has systematically targeted teachers. Reports detail arbitrary dismissals, threats, harassment, and forced participation in political activities. This pattern of control has intensified, with educators facing heightened political scrutiny and pressure to align with the ruling party's ideology.

The government's distribution of a "presidential bonus" is seen by many as a hollow gesture. The 1,000 córdoba payment, equivalent to about $27 USD, barely makes a dent in the rising cost of living. A family's monthly food expenses alone can exceed 15,000 córdobas, and the basic necessities basket costs over 21,000 córdobas, rendering the bonus insignificant for most.

Furthermore, the government's justification for dismissals, often citing "lack of ethics," is widely seen as a pretext for political purges. Teachers who have been vocal or participated in protests have been removed without clear legal grounds. The law itself, specifically Article 32, inciso 4 of Law 114, the Law on the Teaching Career, is being invoked to justify these actions, though critics argue it's being used to silence dissent and maintain political control over the education system.

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Here there are two types of people: those who are romantic and say 'yes sir' to all political orientations because they still believe in the party, and those who just keep enduring out of sheer necessity.