The relatives of the more than 20 political prisoners detained in the cells of the Directorate of Judicial Assistance (DAJ), known as “El Chipote”, reported that prison conditions were improved for the hostages of conscience detained in that center, according to the opponents after the three visits that the dictatorship of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo authorized in December 2022.
According to a communiqué from the relatives of political prisoners, the hostages of conscience have been allowed more hours in the sun patio, which in the more than 17 months in detention they had limited or were almost non-existent; their food rations were increased; They allowed the change of mattresses that were already worn out since they were locked up and the use of blankets to protect them from the cold.
“During the visits we were informed that in this period the right to patio sol has been duly guaranteed and the food rations have increased. Likewise, in several cases, the entry of better mattresses, blankets and pillows has been allowed, which we hope will be extended to all political prisoners,” says the official statement of the group of relatives of political prisoners detained since May 2021.
In the note, the relatives of the hostages of conscience say that they trust that “these rights will be guaranteed or maintained for all.”
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Regarding the three visits that took place on December 7, 24, and 31, they point out that “they were carried out in an atmosphere of cordiality and respect, according to law. During these visits there were no aggressive searches and the appropriate technological means were used to carry out the pertinent reviews”, as on previous occasions where their human rights were violated.
“Our prayers, strength and energy continue to be focused on each of the more than 236 political prisoners being able to hug their families at home. Our conviction continues to be immediate freedom, with all the guarantees and rights. Each step in that direction and for the respect of human dignity is a welcome advance”, affirm the relatives of the political prisoners.
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Ortega and Murillo launched a manhunt for opponents from May to November 2021 on the eve of the presidential elections. In that brutal onslaught, he imprisoned student leaders, peasant leaders, presidential candidates, human rights activists, feminists, journalists, political analysts, and members of the opposition. According to him Mechanism for the Recognition of Political PrisonersOrtega keeps 236 opponents behind bars in the country’s prisons and all are subjected to cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment.
