In 1990, Nicaragua’s President Daniel Ortega lost power after electoral defeat. This time, it looks as though this former revolutionary leader may be toppled by a popular uprising.

I am currently reading Dani Roderik’s latest book “Straight talk on trade”, and I much appreciate what he writes. The Turkish-born economist and Ivy League professor spells out things that sociologists and political scientists understand all too well, but that tend to be disregarded by policymakers.

Sometime back, I promised to read Steven Pinker’s book “Enlightenment now” and tell you what I think about it. I have done my work and can now assure you, that the book is quite powerful and certainly deserves attention.

Lula da Silva, Brazil's former president, has surrendered to the police and has begun to serve a 12 year prison sentence. He managed to turn the surrender into a demonstration of strength because he was accompanied by a rally of supporters who cheered him. The centre-left politician told them he would run for president from his prison cell. Elections will be held in October. An appeal to a higher court may yet result in Lula being found innocent and allowed to be a candidate.