Nicaragua’s Daniel Ortega aims to bar ‘traitors’ from future elections
Nicaragua's President Daniel Ortega has proposed constitutional reforms to exclude opposition members deemed 'traitors' from future elections and extend the presidential term from six to seven renewable years. The proposal, expected for congressional approval in September, follows Ortega's earlier statements suggesting elections may not occur.
Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega has initiated a new round of constitutional reforms designed to reshape the country's electoral and executive framework. According to Congress President Gustavo Porras, who previewed the proposal, the reforms would extend the presidential term to seven years with the possibility of renewal, a significant shift from the current six-year limit. The measures also aim to exclude individuals characterized as 'traitors' or those accused of plotting coups from participating in future elections.
These proposed changes build upon earlier constitutional amendments passed in 2024, which had already extended the presidential term from five to six years and elevated Rosario Murillo, Ortega's wife and former vice president, to the position of co-president. Critics have interpreted these successive reforms as mechanisms to perpetuate the ruling family's control over the state apparatus indefinitely.
Ortega's political trajectory reflects a consolidation of power that has drawn international scrutiny. Since returning to office in 2007, he has become the longest-serving leader in the Americas. His current term, which began in January 2022, followed an election held amid widespread international criticism and sanctions from the United States and European Union. Nicaragua has experienced significant political turbulence since 2018, when Ortega's response to anti-government protests resulted in substantial loss of life and ongoing human rights concerns.
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