Argentina and Mexico have recalled their ambassadors to Nicaragua after the latest in a series of high-profile political arrests, escalating a diplomatic row. The two countries issued a joint statement expressing concern over the Nicaraguan government's actions.
The move follows the detention of journalist Miguel Mora, the fifth presidential hopeful to be arrested in the past three weeks. Mora, a former director of opposition TV channel 100% Noticias, was held under Nicaragua's controversial treason law.
The joint statement said the arrests of opposition figures, including presidential candidates, activists and businessmen, had put their integrity and freedom at risk. Both countries pledged to continue promoting full respect for human rights and civil and political freedoms.
President Daniel Ortega, who is expected to run for a fourth consecutive term in November elections, has faced growing opposition. In 2018, mass protests were met with a violent crackdown. Critics accuse Ortega of using the treason law to target potential challengers.
The Organization of American States has demanded the release of all political prisoners. Nicaragua's government defends the law as protecting national sovereignty against foreign interference.
