Rule of Law in Nicaragua: The Consequences of Governing by 'El Pacto'

Abstract

This paper attempts to illuminate the current state of rule of law in Nicaragua through the lens of the recent corruption case against former Nicaraguan president Arnoldo Aleman. Part 1 provides a background of modern Nicaraguan politics as it relates to the infamous “El Pacto,” an alleged power-sharing agreement between Aleman and current Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega. Part 2 details the factual and procedural background that lead up to the Nicaraguan Supreme Court’s dismissal of charges against Aleman in January 2009. Part 3 breaks down the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Aleman’s sentence. Part 4 concludes by setting out some of the current and expected future implications of “El Pacto” on Nicaraguan law and politics.