On January 30, 2025, El Salvador's Congress ratified significant constitutional reforms aimed at expediting the process of amending the Constitution. Critics argue this legislative change grants President Nayib Bukele and his ruling party, Nuevas Ideas, more power, raising alarms about the country's political future and democratic integrity.
The ratification, which passed with 57 out of 60 possible votes, is especially notable because it eliminates the requirement for constitutional reforms to be passed by two separate legislative bodies. Instead, only three-quarters of the current legislature is now needed. This modification, which was first approved on April 30, 2024, allows for rapid changes without having to consult opposition parties or hold public discussions.
This reform arises from growing concerns over Bukele's leadership style, which many perceive as increasingly authoritarian. "This is the excuse to centralize more power," said opposition lawmaker Cesia Rivas from the Vamos party, reflecting widespread apprehension about the reforms. Eduardo Escobar, the director of the civic group Citizen Action, added, "The reform opens the possibility they can reform any aspect of the constitution." These sentiments echo the worries voiced by various civil society organizations, which condemned the legislative process as lacking transparency and public input.
The discussions surrounding the reform reached fever pitch during the ratification, with lawmakers pointing fingers at the ruling party for effectively silencing dissent. While Bukele’s supporters argue the changes will streamline governance and eliminate public financing of unsuccessful political campaigns, opponents contend this paves the way for tyranny. "The electorate has not put this to the test; the reform was made unconstitutionally," stated Claudia Ortiz, another legislator from Vamos. This sentiment was echoed by 18 civil society groups who questioned whether the majority even had the right to fully comprehend the magnitude of the changes being enacted.
Critics fear these reforms signal the erosion of democratic norms established following the end of El Salvador's civil war three decades ago. Observers cite Bukele's earlier maneuvers to consolidate power, including the contentious removal of Constitutional Court magistrates and upgrades to his military influence during crises. The speed and lack of debate surrounding this recent constitutional change parallel the actions of other authoritarian leaders within Central America, namely Nicaragua’s Daniel Ortega, who has similarly manipulated laws to entrench his position.
The broader political atmosphere is compounded by Bukele's previous moves, including the controversial adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender and the suspension of certain civil rights under the state's continued declaration of emergency aimed at combating gang violence. Notably, the Congress also extended this exceptional state of emergency during the same session as the constitutional change, citing persistent threats posed by gangs.
Political analysts suggest the removal of public funding for campaigns could vastly alter the playing field as opposition parties struggle with reduced resources. Yet, the ruling party claims such measures boost accountability. This paints Bijele as someone who is more interested in preserving power over upholding foundational democratic principles.
Adding to the international dimension, reactions from diplomatic circles remain pending, but there is speculation about private admonishments from foreign powers concerned about the democratic backsliding under Bukele. The U.S., which once perceived Bukele as a stabilizing ally against threats, is now seen as wavering, particularly as Bukele gains notoriety for seeking indefinite reelection, blurring lines around his legitimacy.
El Salvador’s recent legislative actions not only unravel decades of democratic governance but may also provoke unrest among citizens who have witnessed their civil rights erode and democratic processes become hollowed out. Advocates for democracy within the nation continue to express alarm, signaling potential for public protest. The legislative silencing of dissent could very well galvanize opposition forces, even as their influence dwindles.
With this rapid alteration of El Salvador's Constitution, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the relationship between the government and its constituents. The reforms pave the way for more authoritarian governance, unchecked by traditional democratic structures. How the populace responds to these developments—and whether they can reclaim their political agency—will define the country's path forward.