Those who speak out against President Ortega are viewed as destabilizing agents. Changes to the law in recent years means that church leaders are labelled terrorists and coup plotters. The situation has deteriorated significantly since 2018, when widespread protests broke out against the dictatorial regime. Years later, retribution continues against those perceived to have opposed the regime, even those who merely provided shelter and medical assistance during the protests. 

Christians have been among those to raise their voice, but it’s coming at an alarming cost. Christian leaders have been harassed and arrested, Christian properties seized, Christian schools, TV stations and charities closed, and churches monitored and intimidated. In light of these pressures, many Christians, particularly church leaders, have felt forced to flee the country. Many more have been expelled. Persecution against the church aims not just to silence the church, but to undermine their credibility and prevent their message from spreading.