Nicaragua advances reform that would extend the presidential term to seven renewable years

Nicaragua's National Assembly began discussions on a constitutional reform that would extend the presidential term from six to seven years, renewable, and impose restrictions on opponents' participation. The bill is set for a vote in early September, with ratification expected in the first half of 2027. This is the second constitutional change in 18 months, following a February 2025 amendment that increased the term from five to six years and introduced the co-president position for Rosario Murillo.

The reform is controversial, with criticism from the UN, the OAS, the United States, the European Parliament, and the opposition. Daniel Ortega, during the Sandinista revolution anniversary, suggested there would be no more elections and announced laws to combat alleged coup plotters. The bill's full text has not been released, but it includes seven-year terms for the army commander in chief and police chiefs.

International reactions include US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's call to action, Panamanian and Dominican ambassador recalls, and criticism from Lula da Silva. The US ambassador to the OAS, Andrew Stevenson, requested a meeting to discuss potential collective measures. A survey by the exiled opposition organization Hagamos Democracia shows 44.9% support for increased international intervention, with 38.9% anticipating harder repression due to increased pressure.