Nicaragua’s National Assembly approved a constitutional reform on Tuesday that imposes new restrictions on opposition participation in elections, according to Assembly leader Gustavo Porras. The amendment increases the presidential term from six to seven years and prohibits individuals from the opposition who are deemed to have been involved in planning or executing a coup d’état from running for office.

The vote took place during a special session held near the Leon Cathedral, approximately 90 kilometers northwest of Managua, the capital. Porras described the amendment as having been approved unanimously.

The reform marks a significant consolidation of power for President Daniel Ortega, who has governed Nicaragua since 2006. Ortega, 80, leads alongside his wife, Rosario Murillo, who holds the position of co-president and wields substantial political influence.

Critics argue that the new rules further restrict democratic competition and undermine political pluralism in Nicaragua, while supporters assert that the measures are necessary to safeguard stability and prevent attempts to destabilize the government. The broader implications of this constitutional change are expected to impact Nicaragua’s political landscape ahead of forthcoming elections.