World Bulletin / News Desk

Nicaragua's first couple, President Daniel Ortega and his wife Rosario Murillo, easily lead the field ahead of elections on Sunday that look likely to extend their rule over one of the poorest countries in the Americas.

Murillo, extravagant, with a penchant for poetry and art, is no less redoubtable in her current role as the government's chief spokeswoman and -- many believe -- the eminence grise behind her husband.

Known as "Companera Rosario" (Comrade Rosario), she would be elevated to the post of vice president in the probable event of an election victory.