Nicaragua's Ortega vows to abolish elections, draws international condemnation

Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega announced that the country will no longer hold elections, a move that eliminates any prospect of a democratic challenge to his nearly 20-year rule. Speaking at the 47th anniversary of the Sandinista Revolution on July 19, 2026, Ortega said, “There won’t be any more elections here for them to try to seize the government and seize power.” Source: AP News The Ortega-controlled National Assembly subsequently announced a work plan to implement the directive, citing the need to ensure “peace, security and stability.” Source: The Guardian

International Reaction

The United Nations and the United States swiftly condemned the announcement. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk said the developments “further deepen the severe restrictions on fundamental freedoms, the dismantling of civic space, and the steady erosion of the rule of law.” Source: Al Jazeera U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on the international community to demonstrate that the “Murillo-Ortega dictatorship” cannot maintain “business as usual” with other nations. Source: Los Angeles Times However, analysts note that the U.S. response has been limited compared to its actions against Venezuela and Cuba.

Why the U.S. Is Holding Back

• Lack of resources: Nicaragua lacks the oil and rare earth minerals that made Venezuela a target. Source: CNN
• Migration cooperation: The Ortega regime has quietly cooperated with Washington by accepting deportees and restricting Cuban migration, reducing incentive for US action.