Bishop Rolando Álvarez, Nicaraguan bishop of the Diocese of Matagalpa, will receive the 2024 Oswaldo Payá Award, which is given annually to individuals or institutions that have made valuable contributions to the defence of democracy, human rights and freedom throughout the world.
According to the Latin American Network of Youth for Democracy through its account on X (formerly Twitter), Monsignor Álvarez received the award “for his tireless work in defence of democracy and the freedom of the people in Nicaragua,” subjected by the dictatorship of Daniel Ortega and his vice president and wife, Rosario Murillo.
In February 2023, the bishop was sentenced by the regime to 26 years in prison, accused of treason. However, in January 2024 thanks to negotiations promoted by the Holy See, Bishop Álvarez was released along with another bishop, 15 priests and two seminarians. They were all deported to the Vatican.
“From the Latin American Network of Youth for Democracy, together with the Foundation for Pan-American Democracy and Ofelia Acevedo, widow of Oswaldo Payá, we want to celebrate a hero of our times. The Oswaldo Payá: Liberty and Life award recognizes those who have stood out in the defense of democracy and freedom,” the organization said in a video published on 22 July.
“His courage has been a beacon of hope for many who seek freedom and democracy. For all this, we are pleased to announce that the 6th edition of the Oswaldo Payá: Liberty and Life Award is given to Bishop Rolando Álvarez, for his tireless work for justice and freedom. He is an example for us,” he added.
According to a press release issued by the citizen initiative Cuba Decide, founded by Rosa María Payá, daughter of Oswaldo Payá, “Monsignor Álvarez joins this list in recognition of his integrity and tireless dedication to the promotion of human rights and democratic values.”
Yesterday, July 22, marked the 12th anniversary of the murder of Oswaldo Payá, founder of the Christian Liberation Movement of Cuba, victim of an attack that—according to various international organizations—involved agents of the communist regime of the Castro brothers.
At a Mass celebrated in Miami (United States), the Catholic faithful recalled that they were motivated to launch their search for the freedom of Cuba by their faith and love for Christ, as expressed by Father José Espino, rector of the chapel where the Eucharist was celebrated.
“I know that Oswaldo’s entire effort was motivated by his faith. It was in front of the Blessed Sacrament that he decided to launch himself into proclaiming something new. Not only for himself but for our country,” the Cuban priest assured the faithful and family members present.