Ulloa Discusses Bukele’s Impact on Latin American Left
Félix Ulloa, Vice President of El Salvador, recently shared his thoughts with the Spanish newspaper ABC, stating that Nayib Bukele’s success serves as a “slap in the face” to what he called the “incompetent” left in Latin America, which he believes has ties to some progressives in Europe.
Ulloa’s comments came during an official trip to Spain, part of a broader European tour that included stops in Belgium and France. The purpose of the visit was to foster international cooperation with El Salvador and advocate for Bukele’s policies on security and gang repression, despite facing criticisms from several EU member states.
In the interview published just ahead of the fourth anniversary of a state of emergency declared in March 2022—authorizing extensive action against violent crime, particularly targeting gangs like MS-13—Ulloa emphasized the necessity of a stronger approach to gang violence. He mentioned that now, with what he called a “security miracle” in place, the government is aiming for an “economic miracle” focused on growth and development.
Discussing what he termed the “Bukele model,” Ulloa acknowledged its effectiveness but suggested it cannot simply be replicated elsewhere without similar circumstances. He pointed out two crucial elements for this approach: strong leadership, like that of Bukele, and support from congressional and judicial systems.
When questioned about the darker aspects of the ongoing state of emergency, Ulloa responded with skepticism, asking, “Whose shadow is it?” He asserted that the majority of the populace backs the measures, explaining that the general public is not negatively affected by the emergency regulations. He cited statistics from an opposition newspaper, claiming that 97% of Salvadorans want the state of emergency to continue, posing the question of whether they should bow to the opinions of European NGOs and media.
As for concerns over Bukele potentially seeking a third term, Ulloa dismissed these as unfounded, arguing that there is no inherent risk of corruption stemming from Bukele’s governance. He also recalled past political figures, indicating that concerns about governance under Bukele are misplaced.
“Bukele’s criticisms of leftist parties highlight a break from tradition,” Ulloa stated, pointing out that many leftist parties have histories of corruption. He expressed that the left in Latin America—linked to European progressives— is frustrated by Bukele’s achievements, which he believes have brought about peace and public support. According to Ulloa, Bukele’s success stands as an affront to the “corrupt and incompetent left.”
