Story highlights Daniel Ortega wins more than 72% of the vote, officials say

US State Department says it's concerned by "flawed" process

Critics accuse the couple of skirting laws while building a dynasty

(CNN) Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega has clinched a fourth term in office with a landslide victory -- this time with his wife as his running mate.

With more than 98% of the ballots from Sunday's election counted, Ortega had garnered 72.5% of the vote, state media said Monday.

First lady Rosario Murillo has long been the country's unofficial co-president, effectively running the government, analysts of Nicaraguan politics say.

In August, when the couple made their ticket official, Ortega said she was the best running mate he could choose: "Who better (to be vice president) than my companera, who has so far done an efficient and effective job with much discipline and sacrifice."

The move by Ortega, a socialist and former guerrilla leader, is not without controversy, as critics have accused the couple of skirting laws while building a political dynasty.

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