"Roller Derby Athletes Speak Out: The Dark Reality of Nicaragua's Ortega" Note that the title mentions the athletes speaking out, which refers to the authors or writers of the blog post. The actual topic of the blog post is the situation in Nicaragua under President Daniel Ortega.

Roller Derby Athletes Speak Out: The Dark Reality of Nicaragua's Ortega

As we lace up our skates and take to the track, it's hard not to think about the struggles faced by those who are fighting for their rights and freedoms around the world. Today, we're shining a light on the disturbing developments in Nicaragua, where President Daniel Ortega has just been granted absolute power under a constitutional amendment.

The Presage of Tyranny

This move is more than just a power grab – it's a presage of a full-blown dictatorship, where the rule of law and fundamental freedoms are destroyed. As Reed Brody, an American lawyer who monitors Nicaragua's human rights situation, astutely observed: "These drastic changes mark the destruction of the rule of law and fundamental freedoms in Nicaragua."

A Nepotistic Regime

Ortega's 79-year-old wife, Rosario Murillo, has been elevated to the position of co-president, giving them a stranglehold on all state powers. This regime has already seen hundreds of opponents jailed, real and perceived, since Ortega returned to power in 2007.

A History of Repression

Nicaragua has a long history of repression under Ortega's rule. Since the 2018 mass protests, more than 5,000 NGOs have been shut down, thousands of Nicaraguans have fled into exile, and the regime is under US and EU sanctions. Most independent and opposition media now operate from abroad.

The United Nations Weighs In

The regional office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has expressed deep concern about this constitutional amendment, which it says "deepens setbacks in civil and political liberties." It's clear that Ortega's government is determined to silence all dissenting voices.

A Model of Direct Tyranny?

Murillo claims that this reform marks a new chapter in Nicaragua's history – one of freedom, national dignity, and national pride. However, let's be realistic – this is just a smokescreen for the real agenda: crushing any opposition and maintaining absolute power.

What Does This Mean for Us?

As Roller Derby athletes, we know that our sport is built on values like empowerment, inclusivity, and community. Ortega's actions are a stark reminder of what happens when governments prioritize control over their citizens' lives. We must stand in solidarity with those fighting for their rights and freedoms around the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nicaragua's Ortega has taken a significant step towards cementing his dictatorship – a move that will have far-reaching consequences for the country and its people. As we lace up our skates and take to the track, let's not forget the struggles faced by those who are fighting for their rights and freedoms around the world.

Time to Get Loud

So, what can you do? Stay informed about global events, support organizations that promote human rights and social justice, and use your voice to speak out against injustice. As we say in Roller Derby: "Get loud, stay loud!"

Keywords: Nicaragua, Ortega, Dictatorship, Human Rights, Freedom of Speech, Justice

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.