Is Daniel Ortega's Political Regime Truly Benefical to Nicaragua's Citizens?

 

            Nicaragua’s current political system is a representative democratic republic, and since 2007 Daniel Ortega has been the president. Ortega is currently serving his second term and many argue that his political regime has been the most beneficial to Nicaragua's development. What is extremely interesting is that Ortega was part of the Sandinista National Liberation Front that took power in 1979. The FSLN advertised that its main concern was protecting the interests of the poor, since they represented the majority of the population. Under the Sandinistas regime there was an increase in social programs that included social security, healthcare, retirement and rural health benefits. Although all of this sounds extremely beneficial that has not been the case, the average Nicaraguan is still living in extreme poverty. 

           Those who voted and supported Daniel Ortega had specific expectations, they believed that he was going to do what was necessary for the poor. However, under his presidency the poor have not experienced much improvement in their lives. Yet, according to the latest numbers published by the Central Bank, Nicaragua’s economy has grown 30% since the Sandinistas returned to power in 2007 (Central Bank). Thus the question that arises is, who is truly benefiting under Ortega's regime? In an article entitled "Some Sandinistas Never Change" Paul Bonicelli states,"Nicaragua is still desperately poor and ruled as an illiberal democracy, meaning that the constitution, laws, property right and free speech are curtailed whenever it suits the rulers''. I found this quote to be insightful and helpful when answering the question of who is truly benefiting under Ortega's regime. Although, Nicaragua is doing better economically the majority of its citizens are still living in extreme poverty and have not experienced much change. What is really frustrating is that while the majority of his country cannot afford to eat a well balanced meal every day, Ortega is driving around in a Mercedes-Benz G63. According to Bonicelli's article, the luxury vehicle is transported to his various destinations on a flat-bed truck. There is no need for the President of the worlds second poorest country to be driving a Mercedes-Benz G63, that costs $137,150 US dollars,  and when converted is equivalent to 3,708,933.73 in Nicaraguan Córdoba. The money used to purchase that car should've been implemented into a policy that addresses the concerns of the poor. 

          What is even more disappointing is that Ortega is willing to spend $30 million on Russian fighter jets in hopes of building up Nicaragua's military. His main concern should be improving the lives of his citizens, which will in turn effect the success of Nicaragua as a whole. What is the point of having a strong and powerful military if your country is failing and cannot compete with the rest of the world. Ortega's political regime is extremely controversial because it is not addressing the needs of its citizens and he is the primary beneficiary. Thus, it is difficult for Nicaragua to prosper if Ortega does not focus on improving the lives of the poor, since that is what led to the country's underdevelopment and stagnation.