More than 1,500 non-govermental organisations have been closed, numerous radio and television stations shut down, and hundreds of people including civil society figures, opposition politicians and members of the clergy arrested. The ruling Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) seized the offices of five opposition-led municipal governments in July. An electoral reform adopted in May has reduced the period required for campaigning.
Efforts to promote female participation in politics are undermined by broader persecution and anti-democratic actions.
The use of digital apps during the election may be intended to create an illusion of modernity and transparency in the process.
Tighter economic sanctions may follow election day, including by the DR-CAFTA free-trade bloc and the EU -- both major export markets.
International economic pressure could push the president to consider fresh dialogue or political concessions but that is not guaranteed.
