Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele has defended his party’s choice to abolish the presidential term limit, suggesting that many “developed” nations allow for indefinite re-election of their leaders while deeming criticism as unfounded.
He stated, “90% of developed nations permit their heads of government to serve without end, and nobody seems to bat an eye.” Yet, when a smaller country like El Salvador tries to follow suit, it’s suddenly termed a threat to democracy.
The Legislative Assembly in El Salvador approved a constitutional amendment on Thursday that eliminated term limits established in 1841. Additionally, this move set a new precedent.
Bukele had previously bypassed the presidential term limit by resigning six months ahead of the election in 2024, exploiting legal loopholes to secure another term. Elected in 2019, he implemented national security reforms which significantly reduced gang violence, endearing him to many as he won 85% of the vote in 2024.
In his recent message, Bukele highlighted that most developed countries permit indefinite re-elections for their leaders. He argued that there are double standards at play, particularly when addressing the governance of small nations like El Salvador.
“It’s simply an excuse,” he argued, explaining that if El Salvador were to adopt a parliamentary structure similar to those in Britain, Spain, or Denmark, it would still face disapproval. “If that were to happen, the backlash would be massive.”
“Why is that? Because the real problem isn’t the system itself, but rather that poorer nations are acting independently,” he added. “They think we should just follow orders and not act on our own.”
The term “developed” lacks a clear definition in international law. The United Nations identifies the G7—Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US—as major developed nations. Interestingly, among these, the United States has term limits, with an approval rate of 86%.
Many countries recognized as developed, primarily in Europe, typically have parliamentary systems with no term limits for their prime ministers. However, the World Trade Organization has guidelines that categorically challenge this list of developed nations. Take China, for instance; it’s a global economic giant without term limits for its Communist Party chairman yet lauds itself as a developing country.
The swift changes to El Salvador’s constitution can be attributed not only to Bukele’s popularity but also to the strong influence of his Nuevas Ideas party in Parliament. Although six politicians in the Federal Assembly were not part of Bukele’s party during the vote, three opposed the recent constitutional amendments. Historically, El Salvador has been dominated by the two main parties: the right-wing ARENA and the leftist FMLN. Bukele, initially an FMLN member, left the party after a rift with its leaders two years before winning the presidency in 2017.
Regardless of party affiliation, Bukele’s popularity largely stems from his tough stance against gangs. His government has implemented a “state of exception,” which enhances law enforcement’s power, enables the detention of suspected threats, and allows for significant civil rights limitations, such as restrictions on assembly. Reports, even from some opposition media, indicate that gang-related issues have drastically diminished under Bukele’s leadership. For instance, the prominent newspaper El Faro noted that the prevalence of gangs has substantially declined, attributing this to Bukele’s firm policies.
As gang issues seem to be approaching resolution, Bukele’s consolidation of power has caught the attention of international observers. Notably, he has not silenced dissent but has outperformed opposition leaders in elections. El Faro, despite its critical stance towards Bukele, continues to operate freely and has called for more urgency from the international community in addressing his governance.
The OAS assessed Bukele’s victory in February 2024, recognizing the unprecedented situation surrounding the election but affirming his legitimate win. They encouraged him to initiate responsible democratic reforms in light of his overwhelming support.
“This is crucial for the future of El Salvador’s democracy,” the organization emphasized.
