Nicaraguan Opposition Seeks Support from Mexico's President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum

The Nicaraguan opposition group, Concertación Democrática Nicaragüense (CDN-Monteverde), has reached out to Mexico's President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, seeking her support to address the ongoing social and political crisis in Nicaragua. The crisis, which began in April 2018, has led to widespread unrest and significant loss of life.

In a statement, CDN-Monteverde expressed hope that Sheinbaum's administration would back their efforts to restore democracy in Nicaragua. "We hope to count on the support and backing of the new government of President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum to achieve a democracy in our country and for the people to be able to elect their authorities democratically," the group stated.

The crisis in Nicaragua erupted on April 18, 2018, when citizens protested against controversial social security reforms. These protests quickly escalated into a broader movement demanding the resignation of President Daniel Ortega, who has been in power since 2007. The protests resulted in at least 355 deaths, according to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), though local organizations estimate the toll to be around 684.

The ongoing crisis in Nicaragua has significant implications for regional stability and democracy, and international support could be vital in resolving the situation. If left unaddressed, the crisis could lead to further human rights violations, political unrest, and economic instability in the region.

CDN-Monteverde emphasized their commitment to a peaceful resolution. "We will continue to seek a civic and peaceful exit to the crisis that Nicaragua has been facing for six years," the group stated. They also highlighted ongoing human rights violations and the suppression of citizen freedoms.

Luis Blandó, President of the opposition movement Unamos, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the need for democracy, justice, and freedom in Nicaragua. "In Nicaragua, citizen freedoms have been trampled, and permanent and flagrant human rights violations continue. Nicaraguans are still fighting civically to achieve democracy, justice, and freedom in our country," Blandó said.

The opposition groups congratulated Sheinbaum on her historic election as Mexico's first female president and expressed confidence in her potential to influence positive change in Nicaragua. They hope her administration will be sensitive to their plight and provide the necessary support for a democratic resolution.

In response, President Ortega congratulated Sheinbaum on her victory and expressed his willingness to collaborate with her administration. This gesture, however, does not diminish the opposition's call for international support to address the ongoing crisis.

The Nicaraguan opposition's appeal to Mexico's new leadership highlights the desperate need for international attention and intervention to resolve the protracted crisis. As Nicaragua continues to struggle with political turmoil, the support of influential regional leaders like Sheinbaum could be crucial in steering the country toward a democratic future.

Key Takeaways

• Nicaraguan opposition group CDN-Monteverde seeks Mexico's President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum's support to address Nicaragua's crisis.
• The crisis, which began in 2018, has led to widespread unrest and significant loss of life.
• Opposition groups demand democracy, justice, and freedom in Nicaragua, citing human rights violations and suppression of citizen freedoms.
• International support is crucial to resolve the crisis and prevent further human rights violations and economic instability.
• CDN-Monteverde hopes Sheinbaum's administration will back their efforts for a peaceful and democratic resolution.