817.00/5408: Telegram
The Minister in Nicaragua (Eberhardt) to the Secretary of State
[Received 7:38 p.m.]
83. There has recently been a marked revival of the unrest and rumors of impending disorder which have recurred from time to time since last May. While due in part to the excitement caused by Sandino’s appearance near Matagalpa the unrest is unquestionably being fomented by Chamorro. The Conservatives are now opposing the electoral law mainly on the ground that the disturbed condition of the country makes it impossible to make preparations for an election and it is very probable that Chamorro will attempt to bring about outbreaks in several parts of the country between [Page 468] now and March 5th in order to impress the Legation and the Department with the inadvisability of insisting that an election be held.
In view of this situation we have decided to have the guardia take over the policing of Managua at the earliest possible date, which will be about March 15th. The Government has shown an inclination to object to this step but we shall insist upon it. The present police force is completely dominated by Chamoiro.