He knew the contra forces were spending at the rate of more than $2 million a month.

Under the Ortega plan, the Nicaraguan Army would suspend operations to let the contra forces move into the fire-free zones.

When the United States cut off all official military aid to the contras, in 1985 and 1986, the contra forces actually expanded dramatically.

A cease-fire accord was signed by the Nicaraguan Government and contra forces in Sapoa on March 23.

He is a leading member of a national reconciliation commission in Nicaragua that could help arrange a cease-fire with contra forces.

Human and technical difficulties in dissolving the U.S.-built contra forces will be even greater than the political issue.

Her call was quickly followed by an announcement from Mr. Ortega that his Government had declared an immediate cease-fire with contra forces inside Nicaragua.

The contra forces, at maximum estimate, have about 20,000 soldiers.

Last Friday, the United States increased the pressure on Nicaragua by announcing a bipartisan agreement to maintain the contra forces until the elections are held.

But some Congressional officials involved in the Central American peace process say the Administration appears in no hurry to see the contra forces disbanded.