Nicaragua's Arrest of Bishop Mora: A Chilling Turn in Church-State Tensions
Recent happenings in Nicaragua have raised global concerns as the government continues its crackdown on the Catholic Church, viewing it as a significant opposition force. One of the latest developments in this ongoing saga is the arrest of Bishop Isidoro Mora, an event that underscores the strained relationship between the church and the government.
CNN reached out to the Nicaraguan authorities to acquire further information about Bishop Mora's legal status and the circumstances surrounding his arrest. One of the sources who shared insights with CNN was present during the events leading up to Bishop Mora's detainment and claimed that he briefly mentioned Bishop Rolando Álvarez, who is currently serving a 26-year sentence for conspiracy and treason, in his sermon.
"We pray here for the church in Matagalpa and for Bishop Rolando," the source quoted Bishop Mora, according to CNN. Just a day after that sermon, Bishop Mora was arrested.
Previously, Bishop Álvarez was sentenced to a 26-year imprisonment back in 2021 due to his refusal to leave the country and his outspoken opposition to the government. Theoverflowing of critics against the governing body has resulted in the imprisonment of over 200 opposition supporters, along with numerous priests and nuns, and their expulsion or denial of reentry.
An unnamed source revealed to CNN that the circumstances surrounding Bishop Mora's arrest were unclear, as the details could potentially be influenced by a possible government counteraction. Another source shared concerns over the situation, stating, "The persecution of the church in Nicaragua is devastating. We stay silent because if we speak up, we'll be targeted. We're aware that the whole world knows what's happening, but we suffer in silence."
According to Human Rights Watch, thousands of Nicaraguans have sought refuge abroad to escape the relentless persecution initiated by the Ortega-Murillo administration in 2018, in response to widespread anti-regime protests. During this period, hundreds lost their lives, and thousands more sustained injuries in the violent crackdown.
In an attempt to evade the violence from pro-government forces, protestors and their families often sought refuge in churches and cathedrals across the country.
Currently, the authoritarian regime of Ortega and his spouse, Vice President Rosario Murillo, views the Catholic Church as a potent opponent. The authorities even refer to the ongoing protests as an "attempted coup."
The arrest of Bishop Mora took place months after the expulsion of two nuns from Nicaragua back in April 2024, due to their involvement in spiritual activities on Bishop Álvarez's behalf.
Yader Morazán, a Nicaraguan justice expert and former state official, stated that Bishop Mora's arraignment was just another piece in the oppressive pattern targeted at the Catholic Church. "They've arrested dozens of priests and laypeople, and more than 200 people, including priests and nuns, have been expelled or their return has been denied," Morazán asserted.
On January 24, 2025, the state-run website El19digital announced the arrest of 11 individuals believed to be associated with Christian organizations on charges of money laundering.
Ortega is expected to be elected for his fifth term in 2021. From June of that same year, his administration began arresting opposition candidates and leaders, journalists, and human rights activists under dubious charges of national security violations.
