817.00/5054: Telegram

The Chargé in Nicaragua (Munro) to the Secretary of State

[Paraphrase]

263. In my estimation the Department should take advantage of Chamorro’s presence in the United States to dissuade him from becoming a candidate in the elections of 1928. If the Department does not convince him now that he will not be recognized or permitted to assume office should he be elected, it will be virtually impossible to discourage his candidacy after he returns to Nicaragua. As all the other leaders of the Conservative Party are afraid of Chamorro, I do not think they can prevent his candidacy even if they may wish to. His ambition for power is consuming, and as long as he thinks there is any prospect of regaining the Presidency he will not hesitate to risk the welfare of his party or even risk recognition by the Government of the United States.

[Page 364]

Even if he were eligible for the Presidency, his election in 1928 would be disastrous to Nicaragua because it would intensify the hostility of the two parties to such a degree that the establishment of a satisfactory government would be impossible. …

I believe the above points outweigh the obvious disadvantages of appearing to do anything to influence the selection of candidates by either party.

Munro