ANTI-GOVERNMENT agitators killed one and injured scores of government supporters today as they continue to demand regime change in Nicaragua.

Despite claiming they are “peaceful,” protesters attacked and burned down buildings in the capital Managua in their latest attempt to frustrate the government-initiated peace process.

Today, a caravan of government supporters heading to attend a Mother’s Day rally addressed by President Daniel Ortega was attacked with one person killed and at least 27 injured.

Mr Ortega expressed his sorrow at the violence and murder after armed gangs blocked traffic to carry out the attack.

“So much pain … today a young person moved to come to this event lost their life at the hands of violent groups,” he said.

A number of buildings were attacked by mortars, including the Dennis Martinez National Baseball Stadium, while public radio stations Tu Nueva Radio Ya and Radio Nicaragua were also targeted.

Mr Ortega remained defiant and told the rally: “Nicaragua belongs to all of us, we all stay here. Nicaragua is not private property of anyone.

“The devil is destroying a country that had peace, a Nicaragua that was admired in the world, for its capacity for reconciliation.” 

The Nicaraguan government has called for an end to violence by the small minority who have rejected the talks, which have the backing of the country’s trade unions, the Catholic Church and the main student body.

However those demanding the government resign have continued with road blocks, putting lives in danger and damaging Nicaragua’s economy.

Mr Ortega’s peace initiative, including talks mediated by the Catholic Church, seeks to find a solution to the problems facing the country, with the government offering to discuss institutional and democratic reforms.

But they warn of attempts to destabilise Nicaragua, highlighting a pattern of US hostility and intervention across the region where left-wing governments have made progress.

Nicaragua’s bloody history has seen US-funded anti-communist Contra rebels to bring down the Sandinista government in the 1980s. 

Mr Ortega reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful dialogue throughout his 40-minute speech.

“Our greatest commitment and obligation for Nicaraguan mothers is to struggle and defend the peace that we all want,” he said.

“We want peace for all Nicaraguan families. From those who have much and those who have little, we all have the same rights before God.

“Long live Nicaraguan mothers, may peace live.”