Bukele seeks third term in El Salvador after constitutional reform allows unlimited re-election

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele has taken a significant step toward securing a third consecutive term by formalizing his candidacy in the primaries of his ruling Nuevas Ideas party for the February 2027 presidential elections. This move capitalizes on a constitutional reform passed in 2025, which allows for unlimited presidential re-election and modifies the current term length.

The registration was announced by the party leader and Bukele's cousin, Xavi Zablah Bukele, who shared the candidacy documents on social media. The announcement also confirmed that Vice President Félix Ulloa is seeking re-election as well. The party primaries are scheduled for July 12, and no internal opposition is expected.

If re-elected, Bukele, who first came to power in 2019 and is currently serving his second term, would govern until 2033. The constitutional reform, presented by Nuevas Ideas deputy Ana Figueroa, amended five articles of the constitution. It was approved by 57 of the 60 deputies in the unicameral Congress, with only three opposition deputies voting against it.

Bukele, who enjoys over 80% popularity largely due to his stringent anti-crime policies, has implemented measures such as a state of exception that have drastically reduced homicide rates, according to official data. While these policies have drawn criticism from human rights organizations, they remain popular domestically. The vice president, Ulloa, expressed gratitude for the "new opportunity to continue contributing to the wonderful project of transforming" the nation, highlighting that "decades and centuries of frustrated dreams are beginning to come true."

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Decades and centuries of frustrated dreams begin to come true. Our wise and patient people know it and accompany us.