Nicaragua's Constitutional Reform Passes First Reading

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Facts

  • Nicaragua's National Assembly unanimously approved on Friday the first reading of a constitutional reform that would repeal 38 articles and change 135 others, including implementing the expansion of presidential powers.[1][2]
  • Given that constitutional amendments in Nicaragua must be approved in two legislative periods, Gustavo Porras, the legislature's president, has announced that a second and final reading will take place on Jan. 10.[3][4]
  • Last week, Pres. Daniel Ortega sent the proposed reforms to the National Assembly 'as a matter of urgency.' Under the amendments, the presidential term would be extended to six years, and the national executive power would have the ability to coordinate the other branches of government.[5][6]
  • Other reforms include making the First Lady and Vice Pres. Rosario Murillo officially co-president of the country, defining Nicaragua as a revolutionary and socialist, and establishing the so-called voluntary police to assist the National Police.[7][8]
  • Ortega first served as president from 1985 to 1990. Since he returned to power in 2007, he has faced sanctions over alleged human rights abuses. If these changes are approved in January, this will be the 12th time Ortega has reformed the constitution.[8][7]

Sources: [1]EFE Noticias, [2]VOZ, [3]XINHUA, [4]CNN, [5]Al Jazeera, [6]Axios, [7]France 24 and [8]Confidencial.

Narratives

  • Pro-establishment narrative, as provided by Divergentes. This is the most radical constitutional reform that Ortega has ever proposed during his authoritarian rule of Nicaragua. He's formalized a totalitarian system that has existed for six years, all while claiming that his government abides by the law of the land amid growing international isolation. Such shenanigans aren't new, and pressure on the Ortega regime to reverse these draconian decisions must continue.
  • Establishment-critical narrative, as provided by teleSURenglish. This reform, expected to enter into force next year after passing its second reading, represents a crucial — and historic — step forward for Nicaraguan citizens. These amendments will update the constitution to give the people prominence and power, consolidate their rights, and reaffirm the country's independence and sovereignty.

Predictions