Introduction
In the 21st century, dictators are charismatic leaders who win power through popular votes but cling to it using the might of their armed forces. They are not cool dictators, but rather cruel, corrupt, and criminal.
Nayib Bukele’s Ascendancy
President Nayib Bukele has successfully manipulated the political landscape in El Salvador. He rose to power with the support of the radical left-wing FMLN party, brokered peace deals with gangs, and consolidated control over all state powers. Bukele strategically waited for President Trump’s administration to push through constitutional reforms, mirroring Daniel Ortega’s approach.
Historical Parallels
Eighty-five years ago, General Maximiliano Hernández took power in El Salvador, promising order, security, and prosperity. Through the use of force, popular support, and legislative maneuvering, he remained in power for over thirteen years. The pattern repeats itself today.
Bukele’s Authoritarian Measures
Bukele has guaranteed peace and security for the Salvadoran people, albeit at the cost of their democracy and freedoms. He has positioned himself as a “strongman” akin to Pinochet, using populist tactics reminiscent of Hugo Chávez.
The Unsustainable Path
Despite his successes, Bukele’s iron-fisted rule and state of exception are not sustainable in the long term. A few unfortunate events could expose his darker side, revealing the perils of absolute power.
Lessons from Nicaragua
Nicaraguans have witnessed Daniel Ortega’s transformation from a peace-loving leader to an absolute ruler, using his power to kill over 350 people without consequence. He continues to govern and even imprison clergy members.
The Spread of Authoritarianism in Central America
Bukele’s constitutional reform and Ortega’s family dictatorship are symptoms of a rapidly advancing cancer threatening Central American democracy, security, and peace.
Conclusion: The Need for Strong Institutions
While charismatic leaders may believe they are indispensable instruments of divine will, history shows that they often work against the very people they claim to serve. El Salvador and Central America need strong institutions, not strongmen; more democracy, less dictatorship.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current political situation in El Salvador? President Nayib Bukele has consolidated power, weakening democratic institutions and pushing for constitutional reforms that grant him indefinite reelection.
- Who is Nayib Bukele, and why is he relevant? Bukele is the current President of El Salvador, known for his charisma and strategic maneuvering to centralize power. His actions have raised concerns about the erosion of democracy in the country.
- What historical parallels exist between Bukele’s rule and past dictators in El Salvador? Similar to General Maximiliano Hernández’s regime, Bukele has used popular support and legislative tactics to maintain power, disregarding democratic norms.
- What are the risks of Bukele’s authoritarian measures? Bukele’s iron-fisted rule and state of exception are unsustainable, and a few missteps could expose his darker side, similar to Daniel Ortega’s descent into absolute power in Nicaragua.
- How does Bukele’s rule impact Central American democracy? Bukele’s actions, along with Daniel Ortega’s dictatorship in Nicaragua, are symptoms of a spreading authoritarian cancer threatening democracy, security, and peace in the region.
- What is the solution to El Salvador’s political challenges? Instead of relying on strongmen, El Salvador and Central America need to prioritize building strong institutions and fostering a more robust democracy.
