Former rebel Daniel Ortega poised for massive re-election

Former Marxist guerrilla leader and Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega yesterday appeared to have won a massive re-election to a third term, after a vote marred by irregularities.

Mr Ortega scored 64 per cent of the vote, according to results from almost 40 per cent of polling stations in a slow count after Sunday’s presidential election.

Mr Ortega had yet to speak or appear in public, but his wife and campaign manager already lauded his victory late on Sunday.

“This is the victory of Christianity, socialism and solidarity,” Rosario Murillo said. “We tell all Nicaraguans: you will have a government that represents you.”

Right-wing radio host Fabio Gadea, who appeared in a distant second with just 29 per cent, simply called for “calm” late on Sunday.

Mr Ortega needed only 40 per cent support to take a first round victory and avoid a run-off vote.

As the count continued, critics and opponents of Mr Ortega spoke of “fraud,” while jubilant supporters of his Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) celebrated in the capital Managua and other major cities.