El Salvador Parliament Makes Constitutional Changes for President Bukele

The parliament of El Salvador has made significant changes to the country’s constitution, allowing President Nayib Bukele to potentially serve indefinitely. On Thursday, lawmakers voted to remove the term limits for the presidency and extend the term from five to six years.

This adjustment means Bukele, who is currently in his second term and has become a prominent ally of former President Donald Trump, could continue in office for years to come. A total of 57 lawmakers supported this constitutional amendment, with Bukele’s New Ideas party holding a supermajority in Congress, controlling 54 out of 60 seats.

Ana Figueroa, a New Ideas lawmaker and sponsor of the proposal, celebrated the decision, referring to it as a “Historical Day for Our Country!” She emphasized that citizens have the right to choose their leaders freely.

Additionally, the legislature eliminated the second round of presidential elections, where the top two candidates previously faced off. This move aims to streamline electoral processes.

Bukele, initially elected in 2019, gained popularity for his tough stance on organized crime, particularly against the MS-13 gang, and has been credited with drastically reducing murder rates. He was re-elected in 2024 with overwhelming support, and his approval ratings recently soared to 85% among Salvadoran voters.

Following Trump’s return to the presidency in January, Bukele positioned himself as a key ally in Latin America. He has also opened facilities for violent offenders, showing an eagerness to collaborate with the U.S. on immigration issues.

State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce remarked that Bukele has agreed to accept Salvadoran MS-13 gang members not present in the U.S., as well as other violent immigrants. His administration had previously faced criticism for its response to calls from Democrats and activists regarding deportations.