The Ortega-Murillo regime has taken what many view as the final step in cementing their dynastic succession project in Nicaragua. On November 19, the National Assembly announced “partial reforms” to the Political Constitution.
The next day, Wednesday, November 20, the proposed text—referred to as the “OrMu Constitution”—was revealed. It marks the most sweeping and oppressive constitutional reform in the past 17 years.
These changes not only tighten the regime’s absolute grip on the state apparatus but also intensify the authoritarian and repressive practices that have defined their rule since 2007.
At DIVERGENTES, we see these measures as a direct and unprecedented assault on democratic principles and the fundamental rights of Nicaraguans, which had already been systematically undermined.
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Absolute power disguised as legality
One of the most contentious elements of the reform is the creation of the “Co-President” role, which formalizes the shared power between Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo. This move merely institutionalizes a family power structure that has already been functioning in practice.
Political analysts note that this framework paves the way for the couple’s son, Laureano Ortega, to rise to power in the coming years, advancing the family’s dynastic succession—a model that arguably surpasses even the Somoza family dictatorship. It also grants them the authority to appoint any vice president of their choosing.
Even more troubling is the extension of the presidential term from five to six years, ensuring longer mandates in a system where elections are neither legitimate nor transparent.
Furthermore, the unambiguous subordination of the Legislative, Judicial, Electoral, and oversight bodies to the Executive, under the guise of “centralized coordination,” eliminates any remaining semblance of checks and balances.
Legalized repression
The reforms also strengthen the regime’s repressive apparatus. For example, Article 94 permits the military to assist law enforcement in maintaining “stability.”
In a context where the regime arbitrarily determines what constitutes a threat, this measure is a clear attack on public freedoms.
Additionally, the legalization of the “Volunteer Police” formalizes the role of paramilitary groups, which operated as violent armed factions during the 2018 protests. This reform provides them with a legal framework to perpetuate their repressive activities.
Rather than ensuring security and order, these provisions institutionalize persecution and fear. In this environment, any form of dissent can be labeled a threat to “well-being and peace.”
Symbolically, the regime has raised the red-and-black flag of the ruling FSLN party to the status of a national symbol, blurring the lines between party and state. This move aims to monopolize national identity while marginalizing those who challenge the official narrative.
A darkening future for Nicaraguan society
Nicaraguans are facing an increasingly bleak reality. The new laws prevent individuals who are no longer citizens from engaging in politics and limit freedom of expression under the pretext of “protecting national security.” This fosters an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty, choking any chance for dialogue or peaceful resistance.
Structurally, these reforms deepen the political and economic crisis that has plagued the country for more than a decade. The lack of social development, investment, and the exodus of human capital are direct consequences of a regime that prioritizes its own survival over the well-being of its people.
At DIVERGENTES, we reaffirm our commitment to journalism as a powerful tool for documenting and denouncing human rights violations. The consolidation of the Ortega-Murillo regime should not be viewed as a final defeat, but as a reminder of the critical need for organized resistance and ongoing denunciation.
These reforms mark a clear setback for Nicaragua. However, history teaches us that no authoritarian regime lasts forever. At DIVERGENTES, we will continue to report and amplify the voices of Nicaraguans fighting for their freedom and rights.