Holy Father Pope Francis at the Sunday Angelus address appealed for peace in Nicaragua as the death toll from a government crackdown on protesters rises to 110 in the Latin American nation. The Pontiff expressed his deep sorrow for the violence that has caused many deaths and injuries. His Holiness Pope Francis reminded that the Church is always in favor of dialogue but that it requires active engagement in respect for freedom and, above all, life.
Nicaragua’s bishops offered themselves as mediators between the government and protesters, saying they have experienced the violent acts with deep sorrow. As remarked by en.vaticannews.va, Nicaragua’s bishops said, “We firmly condemn these violent acts, which are opposed to free and peaceful protests. And we absolutely reject this organized and systematic aggression against civilians, which has left dozens injured and several dead.”
Nicaragua has seen widespread protests after President Daniel Ortega cut pensions and social security in April. He quickly revoked the legislation, but he himself then became the focus of the protests. On 2nd June, 2018, police laid siege to a Catholic church in Masaya, some 20km south of the capital Managua, after around 30 opposition supporters sought refuge there. They had been attacked by riot police and pro-government militias.
