What's happened
El Salvador's Congress approved constitutional reforms allowing President Bukele to seek indefinite re-election, extend terms, and synchronize elections. The move, backed by Bukele's allies, faces criticism for undermining democratic norms amid concerns over authoritarian tendencies and suppression of dissent.
What's behind the headline?
The recent constitutional reforms in El Salvador mark a decisive shift toward authoritarian consolidation. The swift approval process, with minimal debate, exemplifies how Bukele's government is bypassing democratic norms. The reforms eliminate the electoral run-off, extend presidential terms to six years, and synchronize elections—measures that significantly strengthen Bukele's grip on power.
- The reforms were passed with a supermajority, despite opposition claims that they undermine democracy.
- International watchdogs and opposition leaders warn that these changes resemble autocratic practices, eroding institutional checks.
- Bukele's popularity, driven by his tough-on-gangs security policies, has enabled him to push through these reforms, despite domestic and international criticism.
- The move aligns with a broader regional trend of leaders weakening democratic institutions under the guise of stability.
The key concern is that these reforms will entrench Bukele's rule, diminish political competition, and set a precedent for further erosion of democratic norms in the region. The international community's muted response may embolden similar moves elsewhere, risking regional stability and democratic integrity.
What the papers say
The AP News articles highlight the swift legislative approval and international criticism, emphasizing that the reforms were passed with a supermajority and without extensive debate. Al Jazeera provides detailed insights into the political context, noting opposition claims that democracy has 'died' in El Salvador and quoting critics who warn of increased autocratic tendencies. Bloomberg reports on the procedural aspects, including the vote count and the legal basis for the reforms, while contrasting the government's narrative of legitimacy with opposition concerns. The NY Post offers a critical perspective on the legislative process, highlighting the absence of opposition and the implications for democratic norms. Overall, the sources collectively depict a country rapidly moving toward authoritarianism, with Bukele's popularity shielding him from significant consequences.
How we got here
Bukele's government has been consolidating power since 2021, when courts backed his re-election despite constitutional bans. The recent reforms, approved with a supermajority, eliminate electoral run-offs, extend presidential terms, and synchronize elections, further weakening checks on executive authority. Critics argue these moves undermine democratic norms and increase authoritarian risks, while Bukele remains popular due to his security policies.
Go deeper
Common question
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What Are the Main Changes in El Salvador's New Constitution?
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Why Are Countries Changing Their Constitutions to Extend Presidential Powers?
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What Does Recent Political Reform in El Salvador Mean for Democracy?
El Salvador's recent constitutional changes have sparked widespread debate about the future of its democracy. With President Bukele's reforms allowing for indefinite re-election and the extension of presidential terms, many are questioning whether this signals a democratic decline or a strategic shift. Below, we explore the implications of these reforms, international reactions, and what they could mean for other countries.
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What Are the Recent Political Changes in El Salvador and Israel?
Recent developments in El Salvador and Israel have sparked international attention, with significant reforms and judicial conflicts raising questions about democracy and rule of law. In El Salvador, the government has approved constitutional reforms allowing indefinite re-election, while in Israel, tensions are escalating over the dismissal of the Attorney General. These events prompt important questions about how political power is shifting and what it means for democratic norms worldwide. Below, we explore the key details and answer common questions about these unfolding stories.
More on these topics
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Nayib Armando Bukele Ortez is a Salvadoran politician and businessman who is the 46th and current President of El Salvador who has served since 1 June 2019 after winning the 2019 election.
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El Salvador, officially the Republic of El Salvador, is the smallest and the most densely populated country in Central America. It is bordered on the northeast by Honduras, on the northwest by Guatemala, and on the south by the Pacific Ocean. El Salvador'