Such a move, they say, could also be expected to split the Sandinista leadership itself, separating hard-line militants from those prepared to work within the electoral system.

She begins criticizing the Sandinista leadership.

President Reagan ordered the embargo in May 1985 to disrupt the Nicaraguan economy and to put pressure on the Sandinista leadership.

Despite such statements, however, it is not known whether there has been discord or disagreement on important matters within the Sandinista leadership.

Further, despite their subsequent clashes with Cardinal Obando, the Sandinista leadership never failed to emphasize that the revolution embraced Christianity.

Tensions have also been heightened by General Ortega's reputation as the shrewdest and toughest minded of the senior Sandinista leadership.

And he praised its timing, interpreting it as an effort to end a decade of conflict between the United States and the Sandinista leadership.

Mr. Lewites became increasingly critical of the Sandinista leadership.

The United States contends that such meetings would undercut the contras by encouraging the Sandinista leadership to avoid dealing directly with the rebels.

The Sandinista leadership was made up of Pacific coast Spanish-speakers.