Nicaragua's President Looks to End Term Limits

Leftist Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega appears set to rule for at least another term. A continuation of his presidency would further strengthen the control of the ruling Sandinista National Liberation Front, which proposed constitutional reforms Nov. 4 that could allow Ortega to be re-elected an unlimited number of times and to rule by decree, among other changes. The reform initiative is likely planned to secure the ruling party's stay in power for the foreseeable future and give Ortega time to name a political successor. The current government has the benefit of strong public support, a growing economy and few credible political opponents. As a result, Ortega's reforms will probably be approved by the National Assembly in early 2014.