A ruling party lawmaker in El Salvador has introduced a constitutional amendment aimed at reshaping the country’s electoral system. The proposal, submitted to Congress on Thursday, would allow indefinite presidential re-election, extend presidential terms from five to six years, and eliminate run-off elections.
The reform also includes a controversial measure to shorten the current term of President Nayib Bukele, whose recent re-election sparked widespread debate over constitutional limits. Under the proposed changes, Bukele’s term would end in 2027, triggering earlier general elections than previously scheduled.
Supporters argue the amendment aligns with public demand for political continuity and streamlined elections. Critics, however, warn it consolidates power and undermines democratic checks, particularly given Bukele’s dominance in El Salvador’s political landscape and his sweeping influence over legislative and judicial branches.
If approved, the constitutional overhaul would mark one of the most significant political shifts since El Salvador’s civil war era reforms. Analysts note that indefinite re-election could solidify Bukele’s influence well beyond his current mandate, reshaping the nation’s political trajectory and drawing scrutiny from international observers concerned about democratic backsliding in the region.
The bill will now move through legislative debate, where Bukele’s New Ideas party holds a supermajority, making passage highly likely.