The Nicaraguan government has released a series of photos and videos of imprisoned Bishop Rolando Álvarez of Matagalpa-purportedly as proof of him receiving preferential treatment-that have sparked alarm over the prelate’s emaciated appearance and indignation over his continued incarceration in one of the country’s most notorious prisons.
Nicaragua’s interior ministry published the photos and videos from 10 separate occasions between 25th March 2023, and 2nd November 2023, as part of a 20-page press release issued on 28th November, according to independent Nicaraguan news organization Confidencial.
The photos and videos show Bishop Álvarez greeting his brother and sister during prison visits, watching TV in an area full of snacks, and receiving medical attention. “As can be seen in the video and photographs, the conditions of confinement are preferential and the regime of medical consultations, family visits, referral and receipt of packages is strictly complied with, contrary to what slanderous campaigns would have us believe,” the ministry said in its statement.
The bishop, 57, appeared emaciated in the photos, according to ecclesial colleagues on social media. An outspoken prelate, who routinely denounced the abuses of Nicaragua’s regime, Bishop Álvarez was convicted on 10th February on charges of conspiracy and spreading false information and sentenced to 26 years in prison after a closed trial in which he was denied a lawyer of his choosing.
Picture: Imprisoned Nicaraguan Bishop Rolando Álvarez of Matagalpa receives medical care on 29th July 2023. The Nicaraguan government released a series of photos and videos in a 20-page press release which states the images are proof that the bishop is receiving preferential treatment in prison. (OSV News photo/Nicaragua’s Interior Ministry)