As A Symbol of Equality Between Sexes, Nicaraguan President Officially Announces Wife As Running Mate

On Tuesday, Daniel Ortega, the Nicaraguan President in Central America, officially announced his wife, Rosario Murillo as his running mate and candidate for vice-president as he seeks re-election for a third term.

The 70-year-old president, a former guerrilla leader, officially made the announcement as they registered and submitted their presidential election nomination form to their party yesterday, BBC gathered.

He has previously described the “joint government” with his wife as a symbol of equality between the sexes.

“We don’t doubt that (the vice presidential candidate) had to be a woman, and who better than the partner who has already been tested with work and proved to be very efficient and disciplined?” said Mr Ortega, cheered by dozens of supporters.

Rosario, mother of seven, who currently serves as the chief spokesperson for her husband’s government is widely seen as sharing power with her hubby.

Reports say many Nicaraguans see Rosario as wielding the most power in her country because of her higher public profile. Ortega came into power in 2007.

Rosario has been affiliated with the FSLN since the 1970s. The couple were married in 2005.

Photo credit: AFP