El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele is poised for re-election as his tough stance on gangs and crime has brought safety and stability to the country. Supporters credit him with achieving in five years what seemed impossible for decades – bringing the gang issue under control. The country has gone from being one of the most dangerous nations in the world to one of Latin America’s safest. However, critics argue that Bukele’s re-election is unconstitutional and raises concerns about authoritarianism and the erosion of democracy in El Salvador.
Bukele’s campaign has emphasized his successful military-led crackdown on the MS-13 and 18th Street gangs, which have plagued the country for years. Bereaved relatives of victims have tearfully thanked the president for the newfound peace and security, and the campaign slogan “Never again” resonates with a population that has endured significant hardship and violence. This message has likely contributed to Bukele’s high approval ratings and is expected to lead to a decisive victory in the upcoming election.
One supporter, Armando Grande, a construction worker, was previously a faithful voter for the left-wing FMLN party but has now shifted his support to President Bukele. Grande praises the president for his achievements in transforming neighborhoods and addressing the longstanding issue of security. However, he also acknowledges that there remain urgent economic needs in El Salvador, and hopes to see Bukele focus on these challenges in his second term.
While Bukele’s investments in Bitcoin have led to positive returns for the government, the cryptocurrency experiment has not gained widespread adoption among the general public or businesses. Some citizens express the desire for the president to take more traditional steps in tackling the cost of living and addressing economic issues. Nonetheless, it is clear that the issue of security, both the newfound sense of peace and the fear of a return to the previous state of violence, will be the driving force behind most Bukele voters’ decision to support him.
Critics, however, argue that Bukele’s re-election is unconstitutional. They contend that the appointment of loyalists to the constitutional court has paved the way for a favorable ruling allowing Bukele to stand for re-election. These critics warn of a slide into authoritarianism and the concentration of power in the hands of one man. Human rights organizations and families affected by the mass arrests during Bukele’s gang crackdown raise concerns about the erosion of democracy and the potential for injustice. They argue that many innocent people have been unjustly detained, and that the control exerted by the president may intensify in a second term.
The upcoming election in El Salvador will determine not only the political future of President Bukele but also the direction of the country. Supporters see him as a leader who has brought safety and stability, while critics raise concerns about authoritarianism and the erosion of democracy. The outcome of this election will shape the country’s path forward and have significant implications for El Salvador and its citizens.
