El Salvador is a tiny country located in Central America with beautiful tropical sights and rich culture that has assimilated into the United States. Although El Salvador is now famous for its tourist attractions, natural environment, and delicious food, it wasn’t always this way.

A 12 year civil war plagued the country and its residents, with its impacts affecting people today. The UN confirms that 75,000 innocent civilians were killed, alongside 8,000 people missing to this day. Even after the devastating war losses, violence and unrest continued for decades. El Salvador’s crime and homicide rate were one of the highest in the world, making the country dubbed “The Murder Capital of the World”. Many Salvadoreans flocked to neighboring countries for safety. Gang violence was at an all time high, with gangs such as MS-13 fully running the country. 

However, a spark of hope among Salvadorans was ignited with a new president. His name? President Nayib Bukele, a businessman and politician aiming to entirely restructure the country. 

Under Bukele, an infamous mega prison named CECOT paved the way for safety. CECOT, standing for Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo, has generated a lot of public interest, but remains unchecked due to its success in achieving safety. NPR reports that the facility can hold upwards 40,000 inmates, and is extremely strict with its rules. Inmates are never allowed outside, and there have been reported instances of abuse, torture, and medical malpractice. (here add image abt stats and breakdown of CECOT and el salvador’s safety)

Although there are disputes around the ethics of the mass prison, as well as the questionable policies Nayib Bukele has instituted, the truth remains: he has transformed the country into a safe haven, often being more safe than the United States itself. However, it does not stand that reforming a country allows you to become a full dictator.

A Dictator? What?

Nayik Bukele has consecutively faced backlash over his position as leader over El Salvador. His consistent terms in office, and questionable statements have led many to believe he wants to become a full on dictator.

This is most evident in his infamous X bio (Twitter), where he dubbed himself “World’s Greatest Dictator”.

Although initially taken as a joke, the light hearted description is becoming more and more real. CNN reports that as of August, the removal of presidential term limits have been put into effect, allowing Bukele to consistently run for president.

Despite the risky development, influential nations, such as the United States have publicly supported the constitutional change. However, beneath this support lies a more sinister motive. 

President Trump, Nayib Bukele, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have been negotiating over deporting criminals and immigrants to CECOT. Despite little evidence on the identity and validity of the crimes of such individuals, there has been a prisoner exchange between the nations. CNN reports that 250 Venezuelans were deported from the U.S. to  El Salvador, and The US, in exchange, received 10 US Nationals detained in Venezuela. 

Another victim of these exchanges would be Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was illegally deported to El Salvador. The maryland resident, although proven to be fully innocent, was subjected to physical violence and psychological torture in CECOT. Despite judge intervention and public outrage, there has been little to nothing done on the violation of his human rights under the Trump Administration.

The response from Nayib Bukele?

“He wasn’t tortured, nor did he lose weight”.

Look Beyond Popularity 

The removal of term limits and the immoral behavior of Nayib Bukele proves to be a troubling issue for Salvadorans. Although Bukele hasn’t unfolded to be a full blown dictator, it’s important to recognize the early steps of such behavior. As Marcelo Villatoro proclaimed, “Democracy has died in El Salvador today”.

For Salvadorans around the world, it is important to not idolize a politician for his successes. Although we can be grateful for his reforms, we must maintain caution, and try to keep the beloved country a safe haven free from political corruption.