Ortega Proposes Co-Presidency with Murillo

Nicaragua's President Daniel Ortega has proposed a constitutional reform to officially designate himself and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo, as 'co-presidents.' This initiative, expected to pass given the Sandinista party's control over the legislature, also seeks to extend the presidential term from five to six years and outlaw the enforcement of foreign sanctions within Nicaragua. Critics, including the Organization of American States and dissident groups, have condemned the proposal as a blatant attack on democracy, institutionalizing nepotism and repression. The reforms occur against the backdrop of ongoing government crackdowns since the 2018 protests, resulting in mass imprisonments and the closure of over 5,000 organizations. Political analysts view these changes as a strategic move to ensure long-term dominance for Ortega and Murillo's family. The situation raises concerns about Nicaragua's democratic stability and potential repercussions from the international community.