Costa Rica voices concern over Nicaragua’s “continuing democratic deterioration”

Costa Rica has condemned what it calls Nicaragua’s “continuing democratic deterioration” after lawmakers approved the first stage of a constitutional reform that could further entrench President Daniel Ortega and his partner, Rosario Murillo.

Costa Rica’s Foreign Ministry said the reform would further limit political and electoral participation. It called for respect for human rights, the rule of law and Nicaraguans’ right to freely decide their future through elections that guarantee pluralism and genuine democratic conditions.

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Costa Rica expresses its deep concern over Nicaragua’s continuing democratic deterioration, aggravated by the recent constitutional reform that further limits political and electoral participation.

The Nicaraguan National Assembly approved the reform on Sept. 1 in the first of two required legislative stages. The changes would bar people described as “traitors to the homeland” from elected office and extend the presidential term to seven years. They must also receive approval from the next legislature, which will serve from Jan. 9 to Dec. 15, 2027, before taking effect.

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A firm and coordinated response

Costa Rica said it would support “a firm and coordinated response” through the Organization of American States. The statement followed Ortega’s declaration on July 19 that Nicaragua would not hold elections again. Murillo has served as “co-president” since 2025, while Ortega has governed since 2007.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio separately urged other countries to stop trading with Nicaragua after the reform. He said it sought to “permanently deprive” the country of free elections and consolidate what he called an illegitimate dynasty.

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Permanently deprive the country of free elections