Latest news in Nicaragua? September 5th, 2026

Nicaragua’s political landscape is dominated by a major constitutional overhaul pushed through by Daniel Ortega and co-president Rosario Murillo: EL PAÍS English

• Constitutional Reform and Opposition Ban: The Sandinista-controlled National Assembly formally approved the first reading of a constitutional amendment that legally bars anyone deemed a “traitor to the homeland” from participating in elections, holding public office, or leading political parties. The restriction targets any political opponents accused of ties to protests, receiving foreign funding, or supporting foreign sanctions. Christian Daily International+ 1
• Term Extensions and Postponed Elections: The reform extends the terms of elected officialsincluding the presidency, assembly deputies, municipal mayors, and top military and police commandersfrom six to seven years. This effectively eliminates the elections previously planned for late 2026, extending the current administration’s mandate until 2028. A second ratification vote by the legislature is slated for January 2027 to permanently write the changes into the constitution. Christian Daily International+ 1
• Electoral Authority Expansion: The Supreme Electoral Council has been granted expanded powers to unilaterally dissolve political organizations and sanction candidates accused of undermining national sovereignty. EL PAÍS English
• International Backlash: The United States, the European Union, and the United Nations have condemned the measures as an explicit move toward formalizing a single-party authoritarian regime. U.S. and regional officials have urged international partners to end normal diplomatic and economic relations with Managua and convene emergency reviews within the Organization of American States (OAS). The Tico Times+ 1