Nicaragua’s government announced on Sunday that it had completed its withdrawal from the Organization of American States (OAS), a move that was swiftly condemned by the organization as violating international norms and unable to take effect for another year.

Nicaragua’s government also stated that the local OAS office had been closed and the credentials of several OAS representatives had been revoked as part of a “unwavering decision” to leave the organization.

Nicaragua began the process of leaving the 35-member Organization of American States (OAS) in November, shortly after President Daniel Ortega was elected to a fourth consecutive term amid international concern – including from the OAS – about the fairness of the vote, as Ortega detained opponents and criminalized dissent.

The OAS, however, stated that Nicaragua’s rejection of the group could not take effect until the end of 2023 due to the country’s status as an active member.