El Salvador Approves Indefinite Bukele Re-election Reforms

El Salvador's Legislative Assembly, controlled by President Nayib Bukele's New Ideas party, has approved constitutional reforms permitting indefinite presidential re-election, extending presidential terms from five to six years, and eliminating runoff elections. The reforms synchronize presidential, legislative, and municipal elections, moving the next presidential election forward and potentially enabling Bukele to seek re-election sooner. Supporters claim the changes will enhance political stability, reduce election costs, and encourage foreign investment, while critics warn they undermine democracy and concentrate power in the executive. Bukele remains popular due to his aggressive anti-gang measures and a significant reduction in homicide rates, though human rights groups report widespread abuses and suppression of dissent. The reforms come amid broader power consolidation, including the ousting of Supreme Court justices and mass detentions under a state of exception. The government asserts that these changes will also benefit El Salvador's ongoing Bitcoin strategy by providing continuity in leadership.