Nicaragua's National Assembly approved on Tuesday, unanimously, a constitutional reform that prohibits opposition participation in elections. The vote was held at the request of President Daniel Ortega, and the Legislative branch is controlled by the left-wing ruling party.
The amendment also extends the presidential term from six to seven years, with the possibility of extension. Additionally, it excludes from elections those who participate in "coup acts," commit "treason against the homeland," or request "military intervention."
The ruling party parliamentary leader, Gustavo Porras, announced the unanimous approval after the vote on the complete text. The project had not been fully disclosed before the vote, although Porras had anticipated that the reform would prohibit the participation of political adversaries.
