Nicaragua withdraws from Central American Parliament

Nicaragua has officially withdrawn from the Central American Parliament (Parlacen), denouncing the organization’s Constitutive Treaty with “effective immediate” effect on October 3. The move follows a recent resolution by the Organization of American States (OAS) on October 2, which established a ministerial monitoring group to address the political situation in Nicaragua and advocate for the restoration of civil liberties.

Analysts suggest the withdrawal may be linked to shifting geopolitical dynamics in the region. The Ortega-Murillo administration has sought to expand influence through partnerships with extra-regional powers such as China and Russia, using Nicaragua as a potential foothold for Chinese interests in Central America. This has drawn concern from Washington regarding regional security and the potential for increased geopolitical confrontation with the United States.

Historically, Parlacen served as a platform where the Sandinista government maintained significant influence and had previously advocated for the inclusion of China and Russia as observers. The withdrawal also ends the diplomatic immunity and salaries previously provided to various Nicaraguan officials appointed to the body.