Nicaragua Roundup: Ortega’s latest crackdown, legislature to end dual citizenship, $50b Panama Canal replacement
Nicaragua arrests ex-mayors and ex-military in Ortega’s latest crackdown
Between 15 and 20 people—including former mayors and military officers—were arrested over the weekend in northern Nicaragua in what opposition groups call politically motivated raids. Among the detained are ex-mayors from the banned Citizens for Liberty party and a former military intelligence chief. The arrests follow a pattern of repression by President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo since the 2018 protests, which left over 300 dead. Opposition media and exile outlets linked the raids to the recent detention of retired General Álvaro Baltodano, a former Ortega ally.
Legislature votes to end dual citizenship
Nicaragua’s National Assembly approved a constitutional amendment Friday to ban dual citizenship, potentially affecting thousands, including government critics. The reform, which must pass again in 2026 to take effect, was unanimously backed by the Sandinista-controlled legislature. Under the proposal, Nicaraguans who acquire another nationality would lose their citizenship, while most foreigners seeking Nicaraguan citizenship must renounce theirs, except Central Americans. The move follows the Ortega regime’s revocation of citizenship for over 400 people, including 222 deported to the U.S. in 2023.
$50b Panama Canal replacement
Elon Musk is reportedly backing a $50 billion canal project in Nicaragua aimed at creating a high-tech alternative to the Panama Canal. The proposed waterway, supported by a global investor consortium, reflects Musk’s push for futuristic infrastructure to ease global trade. Why rethink the Panama Canal? Despite its historic role since 1914, the canal struggles with congestion and can't accommodate the largest modern ships, even after expansions. Musk's vision: a more efficient, scalable route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Nicaragua shines at 2nd BRICS Women Entrepreneurs Forum
Nicaragua actively participated in the second day of the BRICS Women Entrepreneurs Forum held at Russia’s National Centre. Representatives from China, Malaysia, India, Brazil, Iran, Indonesia, and South Africa shared insights on creative industries, financing, and strategic alliances. Nicaragua highlighted its Creative Economy Model as a key strategy for fostering global cooperation in innovation and production. The forum also explored co-production models, infrastructure, and technological advancements, reinforcing the role of creative industries in economic growth.
Nicaragua welcomes Cameroon’s historic referendum
On May 19, 2025, the Government of Nicaragua extended warm greetings to President Paul Biya and the people of Cameroon in honour of the anniversary of the historic May 20, 1972, Constitutional Referendum. The message praised the Cameroonian people's democratic decision to establish a unified state and reaffirmed Nicaragua’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties based on solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect.
