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Nicaragua’s Human Rights Abusers Face UK Sanctions
London, November 15, 2021 - The United Kingdom has sanctioned six top officials in Nicaragua’s government and law enforcement agencies for their roles in undermining democracy, repression of civil society and the democratic opposition, and human rights violations.
Background
The sanctions target individuals responsible for orchestrating violent crackdowns on protesters, torturing political opponents, and restricting freedom of assembly and expression. The UK has designated these officials as being involved in serious human rights abuses and is taking action to hold them accountable.
Sanctioned Officials
- Justo Pastor Urbina: Head of the Nicaraguan National Police’s Special Operations Department, who has been responsible for orchestrating repressive actions, violence, acts of torture, and other human rights violations against protesters, students, and civil society members.
- Luis Alberto Perez Olivas: Head of the Judicial Support Directorate, who oversaw El Chipote prison where serious human rights violations occurred and detainees were physically and psychologically tortured.
- Gustavo Eduardo Porras Cortés: President of the Nicaraguan National Assembly, who has presided over legislation that undermines democracy, violates human rights, and represses civil society and the democratic opposition.
- Alba Luz Ramos Vanegas: Magistrate and President of the Supreme Court of Justice, who has undermined the independence of the judiciary and permitted cruel, degrading, and inhumane treatment of accused parties.
- Juan Antonio Valle Valle: Chief of Department of Surveillance and Patrolling, Nicaraguan National Police, who has been responsible for human rights violations against civilians during protests.
UK’s Motivation
The UK’s sanctions aim to prevent these individuals from engaging in any activities that could further undermine democracy and the rule of law in Nicaragua. The move is part of a broader effort by the international community to hold accountable those responsible for grave human rights abuses.
Reaction
UK Foreign Secretary: “We will not stand idly by while human rights are abused”
In a statement, UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said:
“The Nicaraguan government’s actions have been marked by violence, intimidation, and repression. We will not stand idly by while human rights are abused. These sanctions send a clear message that we will not tolerate such behavior.”
International Response
The UK’s action is part of a growing international effort to pressure the Nicaraguan government to respect human rights and democratic norms. The European Union, Canada, and other countries have also imposed sanctions on individuals responsible for human rights abuses in Nicaragua.
Human Rights Groups Welcome Sanctions
Human rights groups welcomed the UK’s decision to impose sanctions, saying it was a crucial step towards holding accountable those responsible for grave human rights abuses:
“This is a significant step forward in the fight against impunity,” said a spokesperson for Amnesty International. “We urge other countries to follow the UK’s lead and take concrete action to hold accountable those responsible for human rights violations.”
Conclusion
The UK’s sanctions are part of a broader effort to use targeted financial measures to deter human rights abusers from engaging in further abuses. The move is seen as a key tool in the fight against impunity and a way to promote accountability for those responsible for grave human rights violations.