Nicaragua has taken a significant step by appointing an ambassador to Afghanistan, deepening its diplomatic relations with the Taliban regime. This decision comes as a surprise, given the international community’s reluctance to formally recognize the Taliban government since their return to power in 2021. Michael Campbell, Nicaragua’s current ambassador to China, will assume the additional role from his office in Beijing.
Nicaragua’s Vice President Rosario Murillo announced the appointment, expressing gratitude to the Taliban for accepting the ambassador. “We thank the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, that people, that government, for the blessing they have given to our comrade Michael Campbell,” she said, according to the pro-government news outlet El 19 Digital.
While Nicaragua has not explicitly mentioned recognizing the Taliban government, the appointment signals a willingness to engage with the regime. This move puts Nicaragua in a small group of countries with diplomatic representatives in Afghanistan, including China, which also maintains an ambassador without formally recognizing the Taliban. In contrast, the United States operates in Afghanistan with a charge d’affaires, lacking a formal ambassador.
The Taliban’s strict interpretation of Islam has led to widespread human rights abuses, particularly concerning women’s freedoms. The United Nations has described the situation as “gender apartheid.” This raises concerns about Nicaragua’s commitment to human rights in light of its decision to strengthen ties with the Taliban.
Nicaragua’s President Daniel Ortega, who has been in office since 2007, has increasingly adopted authoritarian practices. He has abolished presidential term limits and consolidated control over all branches of the state. This trend, coupled with the appointment of an ambassador to Afghanistan, raises questions about Nicaragua’s diplomatic priorities and its stance on global issues.
