During the Interactive Dialogue on the High Commissioner’s report on Nicaragua, Rita French, the UK’s Human Rights Ambassador, made a statement on behalf of the UK.
She said:
“Thank you, Mr President.
“The United Kingdom is grateful to the High Commissioner for her oral update on the human rights situation in Nicaragua.
“The UK is deeply concerned by the grave lack of respect for democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Nicaragua. Under President Ortega and Vice-President Murillo, the Nicaraguan authorities are repeatedly and systematically violating international human rights and are failing to live up to their own country’s Constitution. The international community has a duty to hold the Nicaraguan authorities to account for their actions.
“The United Kingdom condemns the Nicaraguan authorities’ suppression of political freedoms and its attempts to silence its critics. We call for the unconditional and immediate release of all political prisoners and an end to the repression of the Nicaraguan people.
“The United Kingdom is seriously concerned at the Nicaraguan authorities’ failure to cooperate fully with international human rights bodies. The United Kingdom urges the Nicaraguan authorities to allow the Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua full and unfettered access.
“High Commissioner,
“We would welcome your views on what more the international community can do to support and encourage the Government of Nicaragua to fulfil its human rights obligations.
“Thank you.”