Daniel Ortega's re-election as president is not being recognized by his challenger, Fabio Gadea. What happens next? James Bosworth analyzes the Nicaraguan elections in this Americas Quarterly web exclusive.

Retired general Otto Pérez Molina won the presidential runoff vote on November 6. What does his victory mean for Guatemalan efforts to improve security and rule of law?

"Sunday’s elections in Guatemala and Nicaragua were notable for their relative lack of controversy, despite the conclusion of virtually all independent analysts that the former risks a return to the violence of the past and the latter was contrary to Nicaragua’s own constitution," writes COA's Eric Farnsworth.

"It’s a mark of utter failure by Guatemala’s institutions that people are seriously talking about bringing the military back," says AS/COA's Eric Farnsworth.

The two countries headed to the polls Sunday. Retired General Otto Pérez Molina won Guatemala’s runoff, while former rebel leader Daniel Ortega gained reelection in Nicaragua.

The Peruvian president enjoys high approval ratings as the country’s economy keeps booming and his administration steps up social inclusion programs. His next test involves facing lingering challenges, such as corruption and social conflicts.

In February, the opposition will choose its candidate to compete against President Hugo Chávez in the October 2012 presidential election. AS/COA looks at the candidates and some of the top issues.