"The Dangers of Absolute Power: Why Nicaragua's Ortega Consolidates Control

The Dangers of Absolute Power: Why Nicaragua's Ortega Consolidates ControlIn January 2023, Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega and his wife Rosario Murillo achieved a significant milestone in their bid for absolute power. A constitutional amendment ratified by the country's legislature grants them control over all state powers, with far-reaching implications for Nicaragua's political landscape, democratic institutions, and human rights.The Devastating Consequences of Concentrated PowerAccording to Reed Brody, an American lawyer and member of a United Nations expert group evaluating Nicaragua's human rights situation, this development marks the destruction of the rule of law and fundamental freedoms in Nicaragua. By consolidating power, Ortega and Murillo have effectively eliminated checks and balances on their authority, paving the way for unchecked authoritarianism.The Rise of AuthoritarianismOrtega's government has a long history of increasingly authoritarian practices. He first served as president from 1985 to 1990 and returned to power in 2007. Since then, Nicaragua has seen the imprisonment of hundreds of opponents, real and perceived, the shuttering of over 5,000 NGOs, and strict controls imposed on the media and civil society.The Threat to Democratic NormsThis constitutional amendment represents a significant encroachment on democratic norms and values. By granting Ortega and Murillo control over all state powers, the reform effectively gives them the power to coordinate all legislative, judicial, electoral, and supervisory bodies. This concentration of power undermines the very fabric of democracy, eroding the checks and balances that are essential for a functioning democracy.The Impact on Human RightsThis development has severe implications for human rights in Nicaragua. The country's already fragile democratic institutions are now further eroded by this constitutional amendment. As an international community, we must be concerned about the potential for human rights abuses and the suppression of dissenting voices.International ReactionsThe United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has expressed "deep concern" over the reform, which it says "deepens setbacks in civil and political liberties." The regional office of the OHCHR emphasized that this development further erodes Nicaragua's democratic institutions.ConclusionNicaragua's constitutional amendment granting Ortega and Murillo absolute power is a significant setback for democracy and human rights. As we move forward, it is crucial to recognize the long-term consequences of such actions on the country's political landscape and its people. This encroachment on democratic norms and values must be addressed through international pressure and support for those who are fighting for their fundamental freedoms.Recommendations1. International Community: Engage in diplomatic efforts to promote democratic values and human rights in Nicaragua.2. Support Civil Society: Provide financial and moral support to civil society organizations, journalists, and activists who are working to defend democracy and human rights.3. Monitoring Mechanisms: Establish monitoring mechanisms to track the implementation of this constitutional amendment and its impact on human rights.Matters for Psychologists1. Understanding Authoritarianism: Study the psychological dynamics underlying authoritarian regimes, including Ortega's government.2. Psychological Manipulation: Analyze how governments can use psychological manipulation to control people's perceptions and behaviors.3. Psychological Well-being: Assess the impact of this constitutional amendment on the psychological well-being of Nicaraguans.Keywords Absolute power Authoritarianism Democracy Human rights Constitutional amendment Nicaragua

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