Families say Nicaragua prison conditions deteriorating

Relatives of political figures held prisoner in Nicaragua since a series of arrests ahead of this month’s presidential election are expressing concern about the declining health of the inmates

MANAGUA, Nicaragua -- Relatives of political figures held prisoner in Nicaragua since a series of arrests ahead of this month's presidential election expressed concern Saturday about the declining health of the inmates and called for their immediate release.

The families distributed a statement to reporters complaining the prisoners were subject to isolation, constant interrogations and insufficient food.

“My husband has lost 31 pounds since he was captured five months ago," said Deyanira Parrales, wife of former Deputy Foreign Minister Víctor Hugo Tinoco, to The Associated Press. “They don't allow us to give him food and hygiene products are restricted."

She said she had last seen her 69-year-old husband on Monday at the capital's El Chipote prison, where 39 opposition figures have been held since arrests started in May. Those held include seven people who had been considered possible rivals of President Daniel Ortega in the Nov. 7 presidential election.