In a significant escalation of tensions between the Nicaraguan government and the Catholic Church, Bishop Carlos Herrera, head of the country's Episcopal conference, has been forcibly exiled to Guatemala.

According to the Christian Post, the expulsion of Bishop Carlos Herrera marks a continuing aggressive stance by President Daniel Ortega's administration against religious entities since 2018.

Bishop Herrera, abruptly expelled, vocally criticized the government's interference in religious affairs. Security forces and officials aligned with the Nicaraguan government frequently harassed him before his exile.

Persons linked to the local mayor's office disrupted his religious services in Jinotega by orchestrating loudspeaker disturbances, targeting him to suppress dissent.

He criticized the Nicaraguan government by highlighting these disruptions, viewing them as direct attacks on the church's independence and its right to conduct religious activities free from state interference.

Local Catholic Community Reels From Bishop's Expulsion

The local Catholic community has expressed shock and dismay at the sudden expulsion of Bishop Herrera. Martha Molina, a lawyer with close ties to the church, stated, "The expulsion was sudden and has left the local Catholic community in shock."

Molina further emphasized the severity of the targeting, describing Bishop Carlos Herrera's situation as one of persecution by the regime. She highlighted the dictatorial nature of the harassment, underscoring the broader implications for religious freedom in Nicaragua.

The government has not issued any statements or responses to inquiries about the expulsion, maintaining a silence that has become characteristic of its approach to handling critiques and opposition.

Widespread Crackdown on Religious and Civic Organizations

Since 2018, the Nicaraguan government has expanded its crackdown to encompass not only the Catholic Church but also Protestant churches and numerous civil society organizations.

In August 2024, the government revoked the legal status of 169 civic organizations, bringing the total to 5,552 since the campaign began. This drastic action underscores a comprehensive strategy to dismantle any oppositional structures within the country.

The crackdown has also resulted in the expulsion of several clergymen, including Bishop Rolando Álvarez, who was sent to Rome earlier in the year, further illustrating the government's intention to control religious expression.

Seizure of Religious Properties Continues

The targeting has not been limited to individuals but has also included the seizure of properties. A Jesuit-run university and various other church-related properties have been confiscated throughout Nicaragua.

This has included significant community entities like the First Baptist Church of Managua, which not only provided spiritual services but also operated schools, a seminary, a hospital, and a radio station—all of which now face operational challenges under state control.

Smaller congregations have not been spared either. Both the Shalom First Presbyterian Church and the Gospel Eternal Message of the Three Angels Adventist Church have seen their permits revoked, effectively crippling their ability to serve their communities.

Bishops Invoke Religious Sentiments Against Government Actions

In a symbolic show of defiance, Costa Rican Bishop Manuel Eugenio Salazar expressed solidarity with the beleaguered Nicaraguan clergy through a biblical metaphor, stating, "May the Immaculate Conception crush the old serpent’s head!" This comment illustrates the depth of religious opposition to the Nicaraguan government’s actions.

His strong words reflect a common sentiment among the regional religious leaders, who view the Ortega government's actions as not only politically motivated but also spiritually antagonistic.

The continued persecution of religious figures and the confiscation of church properties represent a significant concern for international observers and highlight the ongoing human rights challenges in Nicaragua under President Ortega's rule.