Nicaragua's Parliament Proposes Abolishing Elections Following Ortega's Declaration

Nicaragua's lawmakers have announced plans to abolish elections, following President Daniel Ortega's declaration that there would be no more elections. This announcement was made on Tuesday by the National Assembly, which is controlled by Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo. Lawmakers stated that the constitutional changes aim to ensure the country's "peace, security and stability." Ortega's statement indicated a commitment to eliminating electoral competition, further consolidating control over the government. He stated, "There won't be any more elections here for them to try to seize the government and seize power," during a speech commemorating the Sandinista revolution. The reforms, which took effect in 2025, extended the presidential term and placed various institutions under presidential authority. Critics argue that Ortega has already diminished electoral competition in previous elections. The United Nations has accused the Ortega-Murillo government of systematic human rights violations, and the U.S. government has condemned the move, stating that it reveals the authoritarian nature of Ortega's regime. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the Nicaraguan people's right to democratic elections. The UN's high commissioner for human rights also criticized the legislative changes, highlighting the erosion of fundamental freedoms.