Daniel Ortega, due to be elected to a fourth term tomorrow, is using the methods of the corrupt dynasty he toppled
Fuelled by allegations of murder, incest and witchcraft, a sinister drama is unfolding in Nicaragua, the benighted Central American country known for fragrant cigars and a volcanic landscape that matches its volatile politics.
In the lead role is Daniel Ortega, 75, former revolutionary and icon of the left, who has locked up most of his opponents and forced the rest into exile, much like the dictator he toppled 40 years ago. Effectively running unopposed, he is certain to win a fourth term in office in today’s election, which the United States and Europe have dismissed as a “sham”.
Less certain is what the next act will bring: will Rosario Murillo, 70, his wife and increasingly powerful “co-president” eclipse him in power? For her many critics, she is a cruel and Machiavellian figure with mystic interests and a taste for revenge.
