817.00/5195: Telegram
The Chargé in Nicaragua (Munro) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:25 p.m.]
377. I today informed the Minister of the Interior and the president of the Central Electoral Board that while I wished to study the matter a little further before expressing a final opinion I thought it would be necessary if the new electoral law were not passed before the end of this month to proceed with the designation of presidents of the departmental electoral boards under the existing law. I had previously thought that this would not be necessary but it now appears [Page 387] that the Supreme Court will order new elections in many municipalities, some of which probably cannot be held until after the terms of the local directorios expire on January 31st. It may also be necessary to hold one or two by-elections for Deputies or Senators. Consequently the country cannot be left for an indefinite period without electoral machinery even though the Legation were to assume the responsibility for advising the National Electoral Board not to comply with its clear obligations under the law.
[Paraphrase.] Since Liberals are required to be elected as presidents of the departmental boards in a majority of the departments under the existing law, I trust that my decision will encourage the Conservative majority in Congress to take prompt action on the new law. Will the Department kindly inform me before December 27 if it has any objection to the procedure outlined above? [End paraphrase.]