In yet another move to solidify his grip on Nicaragua, Daniel Ortega's regime has installed his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo, as the new supreme leader of the military, a position she now shares with the dictator himself. This appointment was formalized through a reform of the Military Organization, Jurisdiction, and Social Security Code, a proposal from the Executive that was swiftly and unanimously approved by the National Assembly, dominated by the ruling party. This decision further consolidates the presidential couple's control over state institutions, including the Armed Forces.
An excerpt from the document, as reported by EFE, states, "The military will be subordinate to the civil authority exercised by the Presidency of the Republic as the Supreme Headquarters of the Nicaraguan Army." Since February 19, following a constitutional amendment, Nicaragua formally recognizes a dual presidency composed of Ortega and Murillo, enabling them to jointly wield the powers of the Executive Branch.
Military Power Concentrated in Presidential Hands
With this reform, the Presidency—under Ortega and Murillo—gains the authority to order military operations in the event of external aggression, deploy the Army to support the National Police in maintaining "internal stability," appoint or dismiss the Army's Commander-in-Chief, and authorize military mobilization in national emergencies.
The reforms also grant powers to remove high-ranking military officials who do not comply with presidential orders, cementing a vertical and personalized control over the country's military structure. This, in essence, is a dictatorship in full swing.
Civil Power Under Military Influence
Experts and human rights organizations have warned that these reforms deepen the regime's authoritarian nature by fully subordinating the military to the family at the helm of power. The move is seen as an effort to further shield the government from any potential political or institutional challenges.
Through this maneuver, Ortega and Murillo extend their reach over all levers of state power in a nation where opposition parties no longer function, dissent is criminalized, and governance is conducted through fear, repression, and security apparatuses.
Nicaragua's Political Landscape and Military Control
What powers do Ortega and Murillo have over the military?
Ortega and Murillo can order military operations during external threats, use the Army to assist police in internal stability, and appoint or dismiss the Army's Commander-in-Chief.
How do these reforms affect Nicaragua's political environment?
These reforms further entrench the authoritarian regime by ensuring the military is fully controlled by the ruling family, reducing political challenges and opposition.
Why are these changes concerning to human rights groups?
Human rights groups are concerned because these changes consolidate power within a family, suppressing dissent and enhancing the regime's ability to govern through fear and repression.