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El Salvador abolishes presidential term limits for Bukele

Recent reforms may allow President Bukele to seek unlimited re-election.

August 1, 2025 at 04:04 AM
blur El Salvador scraps term limits, paving way for Bukele to seek re-election

Recent reforms in El Salvador clear the path for President Bukele's indefinite rule.

El Salvador abolishes presidential term limits for Bukele

El Salvador has now abolished presidential term limits, allowing President Nayib Bukele the chance to serve for an unlimited number of terms. This change, supported by Bukele's allies within the Legislative Assembly, extends presidential terms from five to six years and syncs elections by moving the next one to 2027. While Bukele remains a popular leader due to his crime policies, criticism arises over his government's controversial approach to human rights, with reports of thousands of arbitrary arrests under emergency measures.

Key Takeaways

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Bukele can now run for multiple terms without limit
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Changes will extend presidential terms to six years
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Next presidential election moved to 2027
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Reforms supported mainly by Bukele's political allies
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Critics warn of potential one-party rule
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Human rights concerns highlighted due to mass arrests

"Today, democracy has died in El Salvador."

Marcela Villatoro, an opposition MP, highlighted the gravity of the reform.

"Thank you for making history, fellow deputies."

Ernesto Castro celebrated the passing of the reforms supporting Bukele.

"They changed the political system to allow the president to perpetuate himself in power indefinitely."

Noah Bullock criticized the reform’s implications for democracy.

"Amnesty International pointed out the replacement of gang violence with state violence."

This statement summarizes emerging concerns over government actions under Bukele.

The elimination of term limits marks a significant shift toward concentrated power in El Salvador. Bukele's supporters frame this as a necessary change for stability, yet critics warn it could establish a precedent for authoritarian rule. The situation resembles trends seen in other nations where leaders have manipulated laws to extend their governance. As Bukele continues his aggressive crime strategies, balancing public safety with civil liberties will be a vital concern moving forward.

Highlights

  • El Salvador has taken a step toward indefinite rule.
  • We've seen democracy’s fabric fray in real time.
  • This is a troubling sign of power consolidation.
  • Is this the beginning of a new authoritarian era?

Concerns over political backlash

The decision to eliminate term limits could lead to increased political unrest and claims of authoritarianism. Critics fear Bukele’s indefinite rule reflects historical patterns of democracies turning autocratic. The large number of arrests adds to skepticism about human rights in El Salvador.

The future of democracy in El Salvador now hangs in a delicate balance.

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