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Human Rights Situation in Nicaragua 'Critical,' Regional Body Says

Reuters

   MANAGUA - The Organization of American States said on Tuesday that
   Nicaragua was experiencing a "critical human rights situation" that had
   upset the country's constitutional order, following President Daniel
   Ortega's crackdown on opponents.

   Major demonstrations last year left some 300 people dead.

   Protests - including two hunger strikes by mothers of detained
   activists - have started up again in recent days, leading to clashes
   with Ortega supporters and arrests.

   The report by a commission of the Washington-based OAS followed United
   Nations criticism earlier in the day of the arrest of 16
   anti-government protesters on charges it said seemed "trumped-up."

   The OAS recommended a special session of its general assembly be
   convened immediately to review affairs in the country.

   "It is clear that Nicaragua is experiencing a critical human rights
   situation that urgently demands the attention of the Inter-American
   community and the world at large," the OAS said.

   The Nicaraguan government did not immediately respond to a request for
   comment. It has previously dismissed the creation of the OAS
   commission, viewing it as an attempt to interfere in its affairs.

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