El Salvador Removes Presidential Term Limits Allowing Bukele Indefinite Re-election

El Salvador's Legislative Assembly, controlled by President Nayib Bukele's New Ideas party, passed a constitutional reform allowing indefinite presidential reelection and extending presidential terms from five to six years. Critics argue this move consolidates Bukele's power, weakens democracy, and aligns with authoritarian tactics, including previous actions such as removing Supreme Court judges loyal to opponents and curbing opposition voices. Bukele, popular for his strong stance against criminal gangs, was re-elected in 2024 under contested circumstances, and the reform also eliminates runoff elections and advances the next presidential vote to 2027, restricting opposition opportunities. Supporters, including some international defenders, claim indefinite reelection is common in developed countries and emphasize that the electorate ultimately decides the leader's tenure. Opposition lawmakers warn the reforms signal the death of democracy in El Salvador, with concerns about increased corruption, nepotism, and erosion of democratic checks and balances. Bukele’s silence on the matter contrasts with his administration’s prior acceptance of controversial policies, including backing deportation efforts alongside U.S. President Donald Trump.