Rubio urges US allies to isolate Nicaragua's 'brutal dictatorship' after vote to ban opposition parties
Ortega hit back at Washington dismissing US pressure while the reform - which also extends presidential terms to seven years - still requires a second legislative vote before taking effect in January.
WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called on Wednesday for international partners to cease normal business dealings with Nicaragua, following the Nicaraguan legislature's decision to prohibit opposition parties from participating in upcoming elections. This move further solidified the autocratic rule of Daniel Ortega and his wife, co-president Rosario Murillo.
In a statement, Rubio expressed concern over the Nicaraguan National Assembly's actions, which he described as eroding the nation's democratic facade by rewriting its constitution to cement their unauthorized dynasty and indefinitely prevent free and fair elections. The reforms were overwhelmingly approved during a special outdoor session of the Central American nation's legislature earlier in the week and are expected to be formally ratified next year.
Ortega, during a gathering marking the anniversary of the Nicaraguan army, accused the United States of being the enemy of countries like Nicaragua, asserting that the global military power feels entitled to attack. He vowed to stand firm against those who threaten his regime, emphasizing the unwavering loyalty of his people and military.
The reforms introduced by Ortega's government include banning opposition members involved in coup planning or execution from running for office and extending the presidential term from six to seven years. The government also characterizes the violent suppression of mass protests in 2018 as attempts to overthrow Ortega, resulting in the exile of thousands of Nicaraguans, including opposition leaders, activists, journalists, intellectuals, and priests.
Rubio, in his statement, emphasized that dictatorships disregarding citizens' fundamental rights should not be granted the same economic or political benefits as governments committed to hemispheric peace and security. He urged international partners to immediately halt their business relationships with the "brutal dictatorship" of Nicaragua.
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- US urges partners to ‘stop business as usual’ with Nicaragua freemalaysiatoday.com
