The democratic organizations that make up the Platform of Unity for Democracy (PUDE) extended their congratulations to the bishop of the Diocese of Matagalpa, Monsignor Rolando José Álvarez Lagos, for having obtained the John S. McCain Freedom Prize 2024, of the International Republican Institute (IRI).
Through a statement released on social networks, political activists expressed their “rejoicing” at the achievement of the Catholic leader, released from political prison and exiled, and recognized “his contributions to the fight for religious freedom in Nicaragua.”
«We consider that this award could not have been awarded to a better representative of the religious fervor and love for the country of Nicaraguans than Monsignor Álvarez, since he has actively contributed to the defense of freedoms and has given a voice to those who, out of fear, to a criminal dictatorship they have self-censored,” praised PUDE.
Related news: IRI: Monsignor Rolando Álvarez represents a “symbol of resistance and religious freedom”
The civic groups recognized that the Catholic leader “stood up to the Sandinista dictatorship by remaining in the country in truly adverse conditions, in favor of the defense of the truth, religious and political freedom.”
The coalition agreed with the IRI that Bishop Alvarez is “an inspiring example that transcends national borders, making him a beacon for freedom fighters around the world.”
«Monsignor has presented us with a very particular vision of the Church, which is the Church that Jesus wants, not interested in influences or power and that is capable of putting at risk and, in question, the prophetic force that has given it the divine holy spirit,” details the report.
PUDE reiterated its recognition to the Matagalpino bishop for his “work as a priest of the Catholic Church and his “gratitude for being a loyal brother, patriot and pastor of his people.”
“People’s Bishop” Award
The International Republican Institute (IRI) recognized the mission and life of the Nicaraguan bishop Monsignor Rolando José Álvarez Lagos. The prelate was awarded the “Liberty 2024” award for his outstanding contribution to religious freedom in the Central American country. The award was received by Father Benito Enrique Martínez Gamboa in the name of the Catholic hierarch.
The award ceremony took place on Wednesday, May 15, in one of the rooms of the House of Representatives, in Washington, United States. The award was presented to Father Martínez by US Senator Marco Rubio.
Related news: EXCLUSIVE: Bishop Rolando Álvarez wins the “Libertas Internacional” 2024 award
Monsignor Álvarez was banished to the Vatican on January 14, 2024 after spending more than 500 days in the dictatorship’s prisons. The regime sentenced him to 26 years and four months in prison, took away his nationality and violated all of his civil and political rights.
The bishop twice resisted the exile of the dictatorship, but finally gave in to an order from Pope Francis for him to leave Nicaragua and protect his physical integrity. The prelate was one of the most uncomfortable voices for the regime, which earned him persecution, prison and exile.
