# Nayib Bukele: The Authoritarian Populist of El Salvador

## Overview Nayib Bukele, the current president of El Salvador, has been making headlines worldwide with his authoritarian populist policies and alleged deals with a terrorist organization. In this article, we will delve into the details of his regime and its implications for democracy in El Salvador.

## The Rise of Nayib Bukele

Bukele's rise to power was swift and unexpected. He was a member of the former leftist FMLN party but quickly shifted towards authoritarian and extreme rightist movements, including flirting with libertarianism. His project is not ideological but rather an accumulation of power and wealth through the state.

## The Secret Agreement with MS-13

Bukele's regime made a secret agreement with MS-13, considered a terrorist organization in the United States, to free gang leaders who were facing extradition. In exchange, these gangsters would be sent back to El Salvador to allegedly "bury any information" they might have. This move has been widely criticized for its potential to silence witnesses and undermine justice.

## The Impact on Democracy

Bukele's regime has dismantled democracy in El Salvador by bringing the army back into politics, eliminating checks and balances, and imposing indefinite detentions without judicial orders. This has led to a high incarceration rate, with 70,000 people detained since his takeover.

## Criticism from Archbishop Romero

Archbishop Romero once said, "Violence will not be eradicated unless we address its root causes." Gangs are a symptom of a dysfunctional society, and ignoring these underlying issues only exacerbates the problem. Bukele's regime has failed to address these root causes, instead relying on repression to solve the issue.

## The Trump Administration's Role

The Trump administration has praised Bukele for slashing crime in El Salvador but seems to be ignoring evidence of arbitrary killings, forced disappearances, and torture committed by his regime. It is unclear whether there is a connection between Bukele's policies and the interests of the Trump administration or if they are simply attracted to his authoritarian approach.

## Conclusion

Nayib Bukele's regime in El Salvador has been marked by authoritarian populism, secret agreements with terrorist organizations, and a disregard for democracy. His policies have led to a high incarceration rate, undermined justice, and failed to address the root causes of gang violence. As the world watches his rise, it is crucial to understand the implications of his actions and hold him accountable for his failures.

## The Bukele Regime: A Growing Concern

The Trump administration's praise for Bukele has raised concerns about the potential connection between their regimes' policies. However, it is essential to remember that authoritarian populism is not a new phenomenon in El Salvador or globally.

## The Need for Accountability

Bukele's regime must be held accountable for its actions. This includes transparency and adherence to democratic principles. Without accountability, his regime will continue to undermine democracy in El Salvador and perpetuate human rights abuses.

## The Future of Democracy in El Salvador

The future of democracy in El Salvador is uncertain with Bukele at the helm. However, it is crucial to remember that democracy is not a static concept but rather an ongoing process that requires vigilance and commitment from its citizens.