| Sumario: | In this paper, I explore an experience of local resistance that evolved -w a communal-based social movement able to influence decision- making are different Ievels of the Nicaraguan political system. The particular case I will consider is the struggle by two ethnic ~immunities in the South Caribbean CoasrofNicaragua1 against railroad project, known as the "Dry Canal project”. The Rama and Monkey Point communal-based social movement.:. has been successful in exercising leverage on the Nicaraguan state authority system and the private enterprises interested in the Dry Canal project, as a result of a creative process of coalition building. During this process movement member have identified the political opportunities deriving from the Autonomy legal framework and the national Constitution, and they have elaborated a multiple repertoire of strategies to influence the political system, the national media, the business enterprises interested in the project, and the Nicaraguan stare. However, differences of perspective within the community leadership of the Monkey Point and Rama peoples, and among the membership of the communal-based social movement may dilute the level of political consensus that they have achieved within: ne movement since its formation. These differences relate to visions development and forward-looking negotiation strategies.
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