Brooklyn Rivera, a notable figure among Nicaraguan Indigenous leaders, passed away in state custody over the weekend. He was imprisoned three years ago during a government crackdown on dissent and Indigenous rights. Rivera was 73.
Rivera was a former lawmaker and a key leader for the Miskito people, Nicaragua’s largest Indigenous group. His death was reported on Saturday by family, activists, and local media, just days after the government released distressing images of him bedridden and intubated. These photos sparked outrage from human rights organizations.
The health ministry announced his death on Sunday afternoon, stating he succumbed to a bacteria induced by Covid. This ministry is part of the administration led by co-presidents Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo.
Rivera’s family and various human rights and Indigenous groups have expressed sorrow over his passing while critically evaluating the conditions of his custody and the official explanation for his death. His daughter, Tininiska Rivera, voiced grave concerns regarding his treatment, especially post-public release of his hospital images by the government.
After years of hiding his location, authorities revealed Rivera’s condition and photos after facing international pressure. They claimed he had pre-existing health issues and was visited by his son bi-weekly. Nonetheless, the release prompted family members like Ms. Rivera to question his care and the government’s narrative.