Nicaragua has released 2,000 common prisoners, bringing the total number of common inmates freed this year to 9,900, the Interior Ministry said on Sunday. The releases were announced by President Daniel Ortega and First Lady Rosario Murillo during the 19th anniversary of their time in power, a day after Washington urged the government to free people detained for political reasons. The 2,000 prisoners were granted conditional release under the “family coexistence” regime, allowing them to return to their homes. The ceremony took place at the National Penitentiary System headquarters near Managua, the site of the country’s largest prison, La Modelo, and at seven other facilities, according to official statements. Earlier this year, the government released 1,500 common prisoners for the National Holidays in September, and 2,000 more in July to mark the 47th anniversary of the Sandinista Revolution on July 19. A further 2,000 were released on May 30 for Mother’s Day. On February 2 and April 1, the administration granted amnesty to 1,200 common prisoners each day, citing the National Day of Reconciliation and Peace and Holy Week, respectively. Over the past decade, the Sandinista government has freed 55,164 common prisoners under the family coexistence regime. According to government data, 7.18% of those released have reoffended at least once. The practice of releasing common prisoners before the completion of their sentences has drawn criticism from feminist organizations, which argue that such releases have contributed to increases in femicides and general crime in Nicaragua. In 2025, the government released 9,900 inmates, the highest number in the last decade.
Article source: De Ultimo Minuto | Image credit: De Ultimo Minuto