Nicaragua’s bishops ask president for transparent elections

MANAGUA, Nicaragua – Nicaragua’s Roman Catholic bishops have asked President Daniel Ortega to ensure that November elections in which he will seek re-election be transparent and open to international observation.

Following a six-hour meeting in Managua Tuesday, the country’s Catholic hierarchy responded to recent moves that have drawn criticism among Ortega’s opposition.

Ortega has said international observers are unwelcome for the election in which he will seek re-election for the third time since returning to power in 2007. Also, the Supreme Court last week removed the leader of the main opposition party who had been building a coalition to challenge Ortega in the elections.

The bishops say those moves have created a situation of insecurity and confrontation and could lead to less credible and competitive elections.

The government did not immediately comment.