Ortega abolishes elections, turning Nicaragua into a family state

Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, 80, declared this week that the Central American nation will cease holding elections, a move that further cements his and his wife Rosario Murillo's control over every facet of the government, including the armed forces and judiciary.

Ortega, who has been in continuous power since 2007 following an earlier presidential term in the 1980s, stated that this decision will shut down any possibility for the opposition to challenge his rule. He did not provide specific details on how this ban would be implemented, but his intent is clear: to eliminate electoral competition.

"There will be no more elections here where they try to take over the government and power," Ortega said during a speech on Sunday, July 19. The address commemorated the 1979 Sandinist Revolution, during which Ortega helped overthrow the U.S.-backed Anastasio Somoza dictatorship. This latest move appears to signal the end of democratic processes in Nicaragua under his leadership.

Ortega's long tenure has been marked by increasing authoritarianism. By eliminating elections, he effectively creates a dynastic rule, ensuring his family's continued grip on power. This decision is expected to draw significant international condemnation and further isolate Nicaragua politically.

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There will be no more elections here where they try to take over the government and power.