The gradual downfall of Francisco ‘Chico’ López, the eternal treasurer of the Sandinista Front Francisco ‘Chico’ López Centeno, the Sandinista Front’s longtime treasurer and operator of the Ortega-Murillo family’s private businesses, was arrested on May 14, 2026, and transferred to ‘La Modelo’ prison. His fall was gradual, beginning with his removal from key positions after being sanctioned by the US and escalating as Rosario Murillo consolidated power, showing open disdain for him. The arrest followed an audit by his successor, Ovidio Reyes, and came after two of his sons were also detained.

• Francisco ‘Chico’ López Centeno, treasurer of the Sandinista Front and manager of the Ortega-Murillo family’s private businesses, was arrested on May 14, 2026.
• López Centeno managed diverted funds from Venezuelan cooperation, totaling over $4.7 billion between 2007 and 2018, through companies like Albanisa.
• His influence waned as Rosario Murillo consolidated power, leading to public displays of disdain and his removal from positions in February 2026.
• His arrest followed a preliminary audit report delivered by Ovidio Reyes, who replaced him in managing the regime’s finances.
• Two of López Centeno’s sons have also been detained following disputes in mining and machinery businesses, reportedly involving Laureano Ortega.
• López Centeno was known for his loyalty to Daniel Ortega but reportedly feared Rosario Murillo, who often denigrated him. https://www.divergentes.com/caida-chico-lopez-tesorero-fsln-ortega-murillo-nicaragua/