The president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, proclaimed himself the winner of the general elections held on Sunday “with more than 85% of the votes,” according to what he published on the social network democratic history of the world.
“We have won the presidency of the Republic for the second time with more than 85% of the votes,” Bukele said before hundreds of his followers in his victory speech in the Historic Center of San Salvador.
Bukele, who ran for re-election despite the fact that the Constitution prevents it, used a legal trick to run in an election in which all polls showed him as the favorite.
The preliminary scrutiny of the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) of El Salvador had reached 31.49% until midnight this Sunday, with which President Nayib Bukele added 1,295,888 votes.
With these results, which must be ratified in a final scrutiny with the physical records, Bukele would obtain an overwhelming advantage over his opponents.
Behind the New Ideas party (NI), the Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN, left) is placed with 110,244 votes and the National Republican Alliance (Arena, right), with 96,700 votes.
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What are the potential long-term effects on democracy in El Salvador following Bukele’s controversial re-election?
**Interview with Political Analyst Maria Gomez on Nayib Bukele’s Re-election**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us, Maria. Following the recent general elections in El Salvador, President Nayib Bukele has proclaimed himself the winner with over 85% of the vote, despite the constitutional barriers to his re-election. What are your thoughts on Bukele’s claim and the implications of this election?
**Maria Gomez:** Thank you for having me. Bukele’s re-election is certainly remarkable, both in terms of the overwhelming support he has claimed and the controversial legal tactics employed to circumvent constitutional limitations. His ability to rally such a significant portion of the electorate raises questions about public perception of democracy in El Salvador.
**Editor:** Considering the preliminary results show him leading by a large margin, do you think this reflects a genuine mandate from the people, or is it indicative of a more complex political atmosphere?
**Maria Gomez:** It’s a bit of both. While the numbers suggest he has substantial support, we must also consider the political environment that enables such results. Many voters may perceive him as a stabilizing force amid ongoing economic and social issues. However, this ‘win’ could come at the cost of democratic principles, especially with the concerns over his previous moves to consolidate power.
**Editor:** That raises an important point. With poll results indicating he far outstripped his opponents, what might be the consequences of this strong mandate for opposition parties in El Salvador?
**Maria Gomez:** Opposition parties like FMLN and Arena are likely to face significant challenges moving forward. If Bukele consolidates power further, they may struggle to regain influence. The arresting nature of his victory could lead to a weakening of democratic institutions if dissent is stifled or marginalized.
**Editor:** You mentioned the potential for diminishing democratic institutions. How can the electorate balance support for a leader who delivers results with the preservation of democratic norms?
**Maria Gomez:** That’s the crux of the debate. Voters need to continually assess the long-term implications of their support for leaders like Bukele. While he may address immediate concerns effectively, the erosion of checks and balances can lead to authoritarian governance. It’s crucial for citizens to engage in ongoing dialogue about their country’s democratic values and hold their leaders accountable, regardless of popularity.
**Editor:** do you think there’s a risk that the narrative surrounding Bukele could create a polarized society? How should citizens approach discussions about his presidency?
**Maria Gomez:** Absolutely, the polarization is a significant risk. Citizens should approach discussions with an open mind, seeking to understand differing views. Engaging in respectful dialogue rather than deepening divisions will help cultivate a healthier political environment, where various voices are heard, and democracy thrives.
**Editor:** Thank you, Maria, for your insights. It’s clear that the upcoming months will be crucial in shaping El Salvador’s political landscape as this story unfolds.
**Maria Gomez:** Thank you for having me.
**Debate Question for Readers:** Given the recent proclamation of a sweeping victory by Bukele and the associated constitutional controversies, how do you feel about the balance between political support for a leader and the need to maintain democratic principles? Are there risks you see in this scenario that could impact El Salvador’s future?
