elpais.com
Nicaragua: 90% Feel Constant Surveillance Under Ortega Regime
A new poll reveals that 90% of Nicaraguans feel constantly surveilled by the Ortega-Murillo regime through a network of police, paramilitary groups, and political structures, intensifying social control and repression.
- What is the primary impact of the widespread surveillance in Nicaragua?
- The pervasive surveillance, involving police, paramilitary groups, and Sandinista structures, creates a climate of fear and repression, limiting freedom of speech and assembly. This is exemplified by the 33 disappearances and 2 deaths in July 2025 alone, following Ortega's public call to increase "revolutionary vigilance".
- How does the regime's surveillance apparatus function, and what are its components?
- The regime uses a coordinated system of Sandinista Committees (CLS), National Police, and paramilitary groups to monitor citizens. The CLS gathers information, passing it to the police who then carry out repression, including arrests, interrogations, and house arrests. This symbiotic relationship extends to public workers and even coworkers, fostering a climate of pervasive fear.
- What are the long-term consequences of this intensified surveillance for Nicaragua?
- The constant surveillance erodes citizens' privacy and freedoms, undermining public safety. The distrust it breeds weakens community bonds and strengthens impunity. The regime's focus on repression diverts resources from addressing actual crime, increasing insecurity and potentially leading to further instability.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the situation as one of widespread surveillance and repression by the Ortega-Murillo regime, highlighting the fear and insecurity experienced by Nicaraguan citizens. The use of statistics from the Hagamos Democracia poll (90% feeling watched) immediately establishes a tone of pervasive control. The inclusion of Ortega's own words regarding "revolutionary vigilance" further emphasizes the regime's perspective, although this is presented critically. The headline (if there was one) would likely play a significant role in framing the story. The article's structure, prioritizing the survey results and Ortega's statements, reinforces the narrative of pervasive surveillance.
Language Bias
While the article strives for objectivity by including statistics and quotes, certain word choices could be considered loaded. Terms like "ferocious vigilance," "cacería de opositores" (hunt for opponents), and "vendepatrias" (traitors) carry strong negative connotations. Neutral alternatives could include 'intensive surveillance,' 'crackdown on opponents,' and 'critics of the regime.' The repeated use of words like 'represión' (repression) and 'miedo' (fear) reinforces the sense of a climate of fear, although this reflects the reality reported by the survey.
Bias by Omission
While the article presents a strong case for widespread surveillance, it might benefit from including perspectives from the Ortega-Murillo regime or those who support it. Including any official responses to the Hagamos Democracia report, or views from individuals who don't feel surveilled, would offer a more balanced perspective. The omission of this counter-narrative might leave the reader with an incomplete understanding of the situation. However, given that the survey was conducted by an organization operating in exile, accessing government viewpoints might be challenging.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't explicitly present a false dichotomy, but the focus on the oppressive actions of the regime could implicitly create a simplified view of the situation. The narrative predominantly highlights the negative aspects, potentially overlooking any potential positive outcomes or nuanced interpretations of the government's actions. Presenting a more balanced perspective, even if critical, would be beneficial.
Gender Bias
The article does not exhibit overt gender bias. While Rosario Murillo is mentioned as co-president and her role in the purges is noted, the focus remains on the actions of the regime as a whole rather than gender-specific analysis. Therefore, gender bias is not a significant issue in this article.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article details a climate of pervasive surveillance and repression in Nicaragua, undermining the rule of law, and threatening peace and justice. The government uses various structures (police, paramilitary groups, political organizations) to monitor and repress dissent, leading to arbitrary arrests, extrajudicial killings, and a widespread climate of fear. This directly contradicts SDG 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.