El Salvador - July 2025

On 31 July, the Legislative Assembly passed a package of constitutional amendments that removes presidential term limits, extends the presidential term from five to six years and eliminates run-off elections. The amendments were fast tracked and ratified without debate, raising concerns about transparency and democratic accountability. As a transitional provision, Nayib Bukele’s current term will be shortened from five to three years, allowing the changes to take effect in 2027, with presidential, legislative and municipal elections held simultaneously. Critics warn that removing term limits could enable indefinite re-election, concentrating power in the executive, weakening checks and balances and undermining democratic institutions. The amendments passed with 57 of 60 votes in the legislature.

Sources: Asamblea Legislativa de El Salvador, DW, AP News, LA Times, BBC