“World’s Coolest Dictator” Nayib Bukele all but certain to win re-election in El Salvador
Eradicating Violence and Gangs
El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, self-proclaimed as the “World’s Coolest Dictator,” has achieved remarkable results in combating violence and transforming the nation’s reputation. In less than five years, the country, historically known for its high murder rate and widespread gang activity, has achieved one of the lowest homicide rates in the Americas.
Despite constitutional restrictions on immediate re-election, President Bukele is highly likely to secure another five-year term in the upcoming presidential election on Sunday. Critics of Bukele’s administration point to concerns about the economy and the perceived draconian crackdown on civil and human rights. It is worth noting that under his rule, over 2 percent of the adult population is incarcerated, and certain constitutional rights have been suspended.
Positive Impact on Citizens
Regardless of disagreements over the erosion of civil liberties, many Salvadorans have expressed their support for Bukele, emphasizing the substantial improvements in their daily lives. Previously restricted from entering gang-controlled neighborhoods, citizens now enjoy freedom of movement, as they can open businesses without being subject to extortion. They can also enjoy leisure activities with their children and friends without fear. Elmer Martinez, a 53-year-old construction worker in the capital, San Salvador, sums it up: “Why switch leaders? To go back to the same? We’re happy without the gangs, and he needs power to keep making change.”
Inspiring Others in the Region
Riding on his high approval ratings, Bukele has become an inspiration for implementing tough solutions to combat crime in other Latin American countries. Honduras and Ecuador, countries facing violence by gangs affiliated with powerful international cartels, have looked to Bukele’s approach as a potential remedy. Additionally, countries even farther away, such as Chile and Argentina, where crime rates are rising, have voiced their support for a similar approach called “Bukelisation.”
By projecting an image of a transformed, modern nation, Bukele has solidified his popularity. Notable achievements include making El Salvador the first country to accept bitcoin as legal tender and his active presence on popular social media platforms. Bukele’s presidency has gravitated towards a more informal and relatable style, seen in his preference for jeans and tight crew-neck sweaters over suits. His utilization of social media is underscored by his viral selfie posted on Twitter, titled “X,” during his 2019 UN General Assembly address.
Controversial Measures and Opposition
While Bukele’s presidency has brought about positive change in terms of security, critics argue that the erosion of democracy, arbitrary arrests, and the selective interpretation of the constitution have negative implications. Bukele’s opponents warn against a return to the past, when El Salvador was notorious for being the “world’s most dangerous country.” However, Bukele’s popularity remains formidable, with a January 2024 public opinion poll indicating 82 percent voter support.
As El Salvador prepares for the upcoming presidential election, seats in Congress are also being contested. Bukele’s New Ideas party is expected to maintain a majority. Notably, Bukele has appointed loyalist judges who have impeded investigations into alleged early government alliances with gangs and corruption scandals involving government ministers. Furthermore, Empathy and Long-term Salvation.Many Salvadorans view poverty, hunger, and escalating state debt as urgent concerns that require further government attention and action.
Additional reporting by Agence France-Presse
