The Regime Is Not a Monolithic Rock
Sociologist Óscar René Vargas maintains that the Ortega-Murillo regime is experiencing internal fissures amid a scenario marked by structural poverty, dependence on remittances, stagnating investment, and increasing banking profits.
TL;DR
- In 2025, 54.3% of Nicaragua's economically active population (PEA) lacked formal, paid employment, living in poverty.
- The average monthly salary for teachers in 2026 was C$10,821, while the basic food basket cost C$20,821, leaving them able to afford only half a basket.
- Nicaraguan bankers accumulated US$922.39 million between 2018 and 2024, while 3.5 million Nicaraguans live in poverty.
- Private bank profits in Nicaragua increased from US$172.83 million in 2024 to US$216.70 million in 2025, largely due to banking commissions and fees.
- Remittances reached US$6,199 million in 2025, representing 30% of the national GDP and becoming the main driver of consumption, yet 30% of Nicaraguans suffer from food poverty.
- Fixed gross investment has stagnated for eight consecutive years, hindering long-term economic growth.
- The current regime is criticized for abandoning its 'the poor first' slogan, leading to a deterioration in health, education, and living conditions, with widespread loss of hope.
- The article argues for the democratization of social and political life, the re-institutionalization of public powers, and the need for democratic political parties to facilitate constructive change.
- The opposition leadership is urged to recognize the regime's internal divisions and strategically work to weaken it.