Violeta Barrios de Chamorro, Nicaragua’s first female president and a pivotal figure in the country’s reconciliation after years of civil conflict, died at the age of 95 in San José, Costa Rica, following complications from Alzheimer’s and a cerebral embolism.

Her family announced her passing on June 14, 2025, highlighting her enduring legacy in Central America.

Born on October 18, 1929, in Rivas, Nicaragua, Chamorro became politically active after the assassination of her husband, Pedro Joaquín Chamorro, in 1978. His death galvanized opposition to the ruling Somoza regime, leading to the Sandinista Revolution.

Chamorro took over as editor of La Prensa, using the platform to advocate for democracy and political reform.

In 1990, she ran as the candidate for the National Opposition Union, a coalition of 14 parties, and achieved a historic electoral victory against Daniel Ortega, who had been in power since the revolution.

Her presidency, from 1990 to 1997, was marked by efforts to end years of war and conflict, demobilizing thousands of Contra fighters and reducing the size of the Sandinista army.

Chamorro's administration also introduced policies promoting economic liberalization and financial austerity, aiming to stabilize a country in economic distress.

While she received acclaim for her leadership during the nation’s transition to peace, her government faced criticism for its privatization policies and the social impacts of economic reforms.

After leaving office, Chamorro remained largely out of public life but was a symbol of resilience for many Nicaraguans.

In recent years, under Ortega’s increasingly authoritarian rule, Chamorro's family has faced significant repression.

Several of her children, including Cristiana and Pedro Joaquín, were imprisoned or forced into exile due to their opposition to the current government.

Reports indicate that Chamorro was moved to Costa Rica in October 2023 to be closer to her children, who have been active in opposing Ortega’s government.

This relocation occurred amid a broader crackdown on dissent in Nicaragua, sparking international reactions regarding human rights violations.

Chamorro’s death has prompted reflections on her contributions to peacebuilding and democracy in Nicaragua, as both Costa Ricans and Nicaraguans honor her memory, highlighting the historical ties between the two countries.

Her life story has become emblematic of the struggles faced by those in Nicaragua who continue to advocate for democracy and human rights amid ongoing political turmoil.