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Salvadoran lawmakers, dominated by President Nayib Bukele’s ruling party, on Tuesday, passed a constitutional reform that extends life imprisonment sentences to individuals convicted of serious crimes such as murder, rape, and terrorism.
The measure, which was almost unanimously approved, seeks to increase the maximum sentence for specific crimes, expanding beyond the current 60-year prison term in a bid to strengthen the government’s tough-on-crime approach, which Bukele has championed since taking office.
Security Minister Gustavo Villatoro, who introduced the proposal, reinforced the government’s stance by saying, “Our all-out war against terrorists does not stop.” He explained that the reform would target “murderers and rapists,” adding that these criminals pose a severe threat to public safety and should face life sentences.
Bukele, known for his strong-arm tactics and controversial approach to governance, has earned praise from certain sectors while also facing sharp criticism from human rights advocates.
A key ally of former U.S. President Donald Trump, Bukele has earned the nickname “the world’s coolest dictator,” with a reputation for ruling under a 2022 state of emergency. This period has seen the arrest of over 91,000 individuals, many detained without warrants, under the suspicion of gang affiliation.
While the administration has touted the reduction in homicide rates, the crackdown has been met with concerns about human rights violations, including the imprisonment of political opponents.
A report from the NGO Cristosal claimed that Bukele’s government is holding dozens of political prisoners in custody.
In response to the growing criticism, Bukele defended the constitutional reform, posting on X, “We will see who supports this reform and who dares to defend the idea that the Constitution should continue prohibiting murderers and rapists from remaining in prison.”
His stance remains unwavering, positioning the reform as a necessary measure for the safety and security of the nation, despite the mounting human rights concerns.
