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Nayib Bukele, Who Calls Himself the ‘World’s Coolest Dictator,’ Allegedly Had Over 80 Percent of El Salvador’s Voting Population Support His Presidential Reelection

Nayib Bukele, Who Calls Himself the ‘World’s Coolest Dictator,’ Allegedly Had Over 80 Percent of El Salvador’s Voting Population Support His Presidential Reelection
Credit: Casa Presidencial - Flickr

Nayib Bukele, who calls himself the “world’s coolest dictator,” secured his reelection as the President of El Salvador. His victory unfolded amidst constitutional debates surrounding the prohibition of consecutive presidential terms. 

The triumphant leader took to his X account to announce his electoral win confidently, stating, “According to our numbers, we have won the presidential election with over 85% of the votes and a minimum of 58 out of 60 Assembly seats.” 

 

Over the past five years, Bukele has emerged as a political and communicative phenomenon in the region. His recent victory not only consolidates his hold on the presidency but also extends to Congress, the Supreme Court of Justice, the Police, and the Army. 

However, the opposition’s allegations of a “coup” surround Bukele’s triumph. This follows a contentious resolution by the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court of Justice (CSJ), where magistrates appointed by Bukele’s party, Nuevas Ideas, with an absolute majority, endorsed immediate presidential reelection. 

A Quick Look into the Moves Bukele Has Made

The Salvadoran Constitution initially prohibited candidacy for individuals who had served as President for more than six consecutive months in the immediate preceding period. Nevertheless, Bukele’s loyal magistrates argued that seeking “permission or leave” six months before the presidential term’s commencement would make him eligible. 

Bukele assumed the presidency in 2019, triumphing in the first round with over 53 percent of the votes. 

The controversy with his presidency deepened in 2020 when the Army stormed Congress during an extraordinary session to force approval of an international loan for Bukele’s anti-gang crisis plan, aimed at combating the severe gang-related insecurity. 

However, he’s been able to keep the public’s support throughout all of this.  

The United States Has Thoughts

In response to the September 3 ruling allowing presidential reelection, the United States government condemned the move, citing violations of the Salvadoran constitution. The U.S. expressed concerns over the erosion of the separation of powers and democratic governance, particularly after the Legislative Assembly’s removal of sitting justices on May 1. 

The U.S. underscored those constitutional amendments to mandate retirement for justices at 60 or after 30 years of service, purportedly to combat corruption, further consolidated control over the judiciary. This, combined with actions on May 1, highlighted a strategy to undermine judicial independence and weaken checks on the executive branch. 

Nevertheless, the United States released a statement supporting and congratulating Bukele’s reelection. They also stated how eager they are to work on strategies to help both countries thrive together.  

While the “world’s coolest dictator” celebrates his victory, uncertainties loom over El Salvador’s future. Questions arise about his approach to gang-related issues, the potential expansion of the prison system, and the quest for income equality among Salvadorans. 

The international community watches closely as El Salvador navigates this political rollercoaster, wondering what lies ahead under Bukele’s extended reign.

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