Nicaragua’s President Ortega says no more elections, extending his 20-year rule

Nicaragua’s President Daniel Ortega announced that the country will not hold elections in the foreseeable future, reinforcing his nearly two-decade rule and dismissing opposition calls for democratic voting. This decision cancels the elections initially set for November 2027, following a government decision to extend the presidential term. Ortega, who first came to power after the 1979 Sandinista Revolution, has since rewritten the constitution and suppressed political opposition. His 2021 election win was widely criticized as illegitimate. Ortega’s recent declaration, made during a speech criticizing the United States, signals a move to eliminate electoral competition entirely, drawing comparisons to one-party systems like China and Cuba. Critics argue this reflects Ortega’s fear of losing power and his intent to consolidate control under the Sandinista party. QUESTION: How might the absence of elections in Nicaragua impact the country’s future and its citizens’ ability to influence their government?