Nicaragua Accuses Vatican of “Depravity” Amid Growing Diplomatic Crisis

A Deepening Rift Between Nicaragua and the Vatican

The government of Nicaragua, led by Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, has intensified its diplomatic and ideological conflict with the Vatican, issuing a scathing statement on February 9, 2025. The Nicaraguan Foreign Ministry condemned the Catholic Church for allegedly interfering in the country’s sovereignty, describing the Vatican as “depraved” and “pedophile.”

The latest escalation follows an interview given by Bishop Rolando Álvarez, a prominent Nicaraguan cleric stripped of his citizenship and exiled to the Vatican. In his interview with EWTN Noticias, Álvarez reflected on his political imprisonment, exile, and continued role in the Catholic Church, prompting a furious reaction from the Nicaraguan government.

Ortega’s Regime Accuses Vatican of Political Meddling

The Nicaraguan government’s statement accused the Vatican of meddling in domestic politics by continuing to recognize Álvarez as the Bishop of Matagalpa, despite his denationalization and exile. The government claimed that:

• The Vatican is attempting to impose authority over Nicaragua by appointing clergy members without state approval.
• Bishop Álvarez and other exiled church leaders are engaged in politically motivated attacks against the Ortega regime.
• The Catholic Church has a history of colonialism, repression, and systemic abuse, using religion as a tool of control.

The statement described Álvarez’s declarations as “irresponsible and disrespectful,” framing him as a destabilizing force attempting to undermine Nicaragua’s sovereignty.

Bishop Rolando Álvarez: A Symbol of Resistance

Bishop Rolando Álvarez has become a symbol of religious persecution under Ortega’s rule. His arrest in 2023, sentencing to 26 years in prison on charges of treason, and eventual exile to the Vatican in 2024, have drawn international condemnation.

Despite his exile, Álvarez has continued to speak out against the Ortega government, asserting that he remains the legitimate Bishop of Matagalpa. In his interview with EWTN Noticias, he described:

• His experience in solitary confinement and physical and psychological torture in Nicaraguan prison.
• The continued persecution of clergy in Nicaragua, where over 46 priests and bishops have been expelled since 2018.
• His commitment to serving the Catholic Church, despite government efforts to erase his influence.

A History of Church-State Tensions in Nicaragua

The Catholic Church has long been a target of Ortega’s government, which has accused clergy members of supporting opposition movements and inciting unrest.

Key Incidents in the Vatican-Nicaragua Conflict

• 2018: Nationwide protests erupt in Nicaragua. The Catholic Church mediates negotiations, angering Ortega.
• 2022: The Vatican’s envoy is expelled, and Nicaragua suspends diplomatic ties with the Holy See.
• 2023: Bishop Álvarez is sentenced to 26 years in prison for treason after refusing to leave the country.
• 2024: The Jesuit order is dissolved in Nicaragua, and multiple Catholic schools and properties are seized by the government.
• 2025: The Nicaraguan government openly attacks the Vatican, calling it a “pedophile and depraved state.”

The Pope himself has criticized Ortega, describing his government as a “crude dictatorship” and condemning its repression of political and religious freedoms.

International Reactions and Diplomatic Fallout

Nicaragua’s escalating attacks on the Vatican are likely to:

• Further isolate Ortega’s government internationally, particularly among Catholic-majority nations.
• Increase pressure from human rights organizations condemning religious persecution.
• Worsen Nicaragua’s diplomatic standing with the European Union and Latin American allies.

Despite this, Ortega continues to consolidate power, relying on political repression and propaganda to maintain control over the country.

What’s Next for the Vatican and Nicaragua?

With diplomatic ties severed, the conflict between Ortega and the Vatican appears to be reaching a point of no return. Key developments to watch include:

• Possible Vatican sanctions or stronger statements from Pope Francis condemning Nicaragua’s religious repression.
• International pressure on Ortega, particularly from Latin American leaders and the European Union.
• Continued persecution of Catholic clergy, with fears of further arrests and church closures.
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  The diplomatic war between Nicaragua and the Vatican has entered a new phase, with Ortega’s government making unprecedented accusations against the Catholic Church. As religious repression intensifies, the world watches to see whether international pressure will force Ortega to moderate his stance or escalate his crackdown on religious freedoms.