The UN Group of Human Rights Experts on Nicaragua voiced grave concerns on Monday over newly enacted constitutional amendments, warning that the changes are an attempt to grant President Daniel Ortega unlimited power and could undermine democratic governance.

The newly adopted amendments expand the presidential term from five to six years and elevate the role of the vice president, currently held by Ortega’s wife, to that of co-president. They also eliminate the constitutional prohibition on press censorship and state that fundamental rights can be suspended during a state of emergency. Additionally, the amendments lower the threshold for use of the military in domestic policing, allowing the government to request military support whenever it deems the “stability” of the state at risk.

The expert group said reforms are part of a broader pattern of constitutional changes aimed at cementing and legitimizing the government’s unrestricted control. The statement also argues that this latest amendment, the twelfth since Ortega’s return to power in 2007, effectively dismantles the separation of powers, reducing it to a nominal concept.

The statement urged the international community to hold the Nicaraguan government accountable by pressing it to restore the separation of powers and comply with its international obligations. They emphasized the importance of upholding fundamental democratic principles to ensure human rights protection.

In November, the UN Group of Experts highlighted a wider context of systematic repression in Nicaragua, particularly targeting the university sector. Since 2018, authorities have carried out severe human rights violations against students, educators, and academic staff, focusing on those seen as opposition figures or threats to the government’s established order. These abuses include violations of personal liberty, freedom of expression, academic freedom, and the right to education. Some of these actions have been classified as crimes against humanity, including murder, torture, and political persecution.

The amendments need to approved a second time by the new National Assembly when it meets in January  before they take effect.