The Ortega Brothers’ Power Struggle: Inside Nicaragua’s Political Dynasty
Amidst rising tensions in Nicaragua, a police contingent recently surrounded the home of retired General Humberto Ortega Saavedra, brother of President Daniel Ortega. The officers confiscated his devices and summoned him to the police headquarters. In an interview, Ortega criticized the administration’s dynastic succession plans, especially concerning his nephew, Laureano Ortega Murillo.
Ortega questioned the viability of a smooth transition post-Daniel Ortega, citing the lack of a suitable replacement within the regime, particularly doubting Rosario Murillo’s ability to lead. The strained relationship between Ortega and Murillo is rooted in a deep-seated political rivalry, according to former Sandinista guerrilla Dora María Téllez.
Despite his influential military and party background, Ortega has distanced himself from his brother’s authoritarian approach. While acknowledging conflicting views, he emphasized the perilous nature of his position within the regime. The ongoing power struggle within the Ortega family reflects broader tensions in Nicaraguan politics.
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