Ortega set for a third consecutive term in Nicaragua

Subject

Pre-election politics.

Significance

On July 19, the ruling Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) celebrated the 37th anniversary of the Nicaraguan Revolution. With presidential and legislative elections scheduled for November 6, their leader, President Daniel Ortega, is set to run for third consecutive term in office (his fourth in total). While the FSLN has a substantial lead in the opinion polls, however, concerns are running high around the integrity of the election process.

Impacts

• The Ortega administration is likely to receive international criticism for its stance against election observers.
• Ortega is likely to announce more public spending in order to bolster domestic support.
• Rising tensions around the elections may contribute to an environment of increased criminality, especially in urban areas.