politics
April 4, 2026
Dictatorship Defeated: Full Churches and Cardinal Does Not Deny Prohibition of Street Processions
Cardinal Leopoldo Brenes avoided denying allegations about the prohibition of street processions in Nicaragua, amidst international criticism pointing to restrictions on religious freedom during Holy Week.
TL;DR
- Cardinal Leopoldo Brenes celebrated the Chrism Mass in Managua Cathedral during Holy Week 2026.
- International organizations have raised concerns about restrictions on public religious expression in Nicaragua.
- Cardinal Brenes focused his remarks on pastoral activities within churches, avoiding direct mention of bans on street processions.
- Images cited by the Cardinal show religious celebrations held inside cathedrals and parishes, aligning with reports of processions not being authorized on streets for several years.
- Several Nicaraguan bishops are in exile, unable to accompany their dioceses during Holy Week.
- The U.S. State Department has accused the Ortega-Murillo dictatorship of denying Nicaraguans the right to practice their faith by prohibiting public processions.
- The Nicaraguan government has categorically denied these accusations through official media, but has not explained the restrictions on street processions.