In Response To Nicaragua's Ortega Anti-Democratic Antics, Ros-Lehtinen And Sires Introduce Bipartisan Legislation Calling For The U.S. To Oppose Loans To Nicaragua's Regime Unless Effective Steps Are Taken To Hold Free, Fair, and Transparent Elections

Statement

Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Chairman of the Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, and Congressman Albio Sires (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, introduced H.R. 5708 -- the Nicaraguan Investment Conditionality Act (NICA) of 2016. The bill urges the President to instruct the U.S. Executive Directors at each international financial institution to use the voice, vote, and influence of the U.S. to oppose any loan for the Nicaraguan regime unless the Secretary of State certifies that Nicaragua is taking effective steps to hold free, fair, and transparent elections overseen by credible domestic and international electoral observers, promote democratic principles, strengthen the rule of law, and respect the right to freedom of association and expression.

Statement by Ros-Lehtinen:

"This year, Daniel Ortega has denied international electoral observers from the European Union and the Organization of American States from observing the upcoming presidential elections, has expelled U.S. government officials, and has harassed personnel from non-governmental organizations. These anti-democratic actions from the Ortega regime are unacceptable and must be met with a strong response from the United States. Ortega continues to violate the human rights of the people of Nicaragua, continues to ignore the Nicaraguan Constitution, and continues to use the judicial branch and the electoral council to hold onto power at any means. This bipartisan bill mandates for the U.S. to oppose international loans to Nicaragua so that Ortega is held accountable for his destructive and repressive actions."

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