The Nicaraguan parliament has moved forward with a suite of constitutional reforms that could redefining the nation’s executive power structure. Unanimously passed by the legislature, these reforms, proposed by President Daniel Ortega, are set to establish the concept of “co-presidency,” a shift that could enable both the president and his wife, Rosario Murillo, who is currently the vice president, to rule as co-presidents. Additionally, these amendments propose extending the presidential term from five to six years, along with a consolidation of control over legislative, judicial, and electoral bodies by the executive. Furthermore, the new system would allow the appointment of vice presidents without the necessity of a popular vote, adding a layer of complexity to the country’s democratic processes.
This legislative approval marks the initial phase, with a second approval vote scheduled for January 10, 2025. Dr. Gustavo Porras, President of the National Assembly, emphasized the reforms’ potential to fortify governmental institutions and laws. He appealed to citizens to stand united against poverty and in support of peace, goals he argues are attainable through these constitutional reforms. His statements reflected a view that these changes could ultimately be beneficial for the country’s governance and socio-economic conditions. More details on Dr. Porras’ comments can be found in a recent statement.
However, these proposals have not proceeded without substantial opposition. Critics, including opposition political factions, contend that this move by Ortega and Murillo represents a bid to centralize power, thereby edging Nicaragua towards totalitarianism by eliminating the separation of powers. Numerous international observers have echoed these apprehensions. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has publicly urged lawmakers to reject the reforms, highlighting concerns over Nicaragua’s deteriorating human rights landscape. His plea outlines the potential risks to the democratic framework and rule of law in Nicaragua. You can read more about these concerns in an official statement by the UN Human Rights Office.
The secretarial general of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, described the reforms as an assault on the “Democratic Rule of Law,” emphasizing their potentially illegitimate nature. An official statement from Almagro further critiquing the basis of these reforms is available here.
These developments are part of a broader narrative in Nicaraguan politics, generating intense debate both nationally and internationally about the country’s direction under continued Sandinista National Liberation Front leadership. As Nicaragua awaits the outcome of the second legislative approval in January, monitoring the evolving political environment is crucial for practitioners and analysts focused on international and constitutional law.