In a bold and controversial move, El Salvador has abolished presidential term limits, allowing President Nayib Bukele to remain in power indefinitely. This seismic shift in the country’s political landscape has sparked global debate, especially among cryptocurrency enthusiasts who have closely followed Bukele’s Bitcoin-friendly policies. What does this mean for the future of democracy and crypto adoption in El Salvador?
El Salvador’s Constitutional Reform: What Changed?
The reform, passed on July 24, 2025, includes three major changes:
- Removal of presidential term limits
- Extension of presidential terms from five to six years
- Alignment of presidential and congressional elections
Nayib Bukele’s Power Consolidation
Bukele’s New Ideas party controls the legislative body, allowing these reforms to pass with minimal opposition. Critics argue this move:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Potential for policy continuity | Risk of authoritarianism |
| Stability in governance | Reduced political pluralism |
| Alignment with crypto-friendly policies | Weakened democratic institutions |
Democracy Under Threat in El Salvador?
Opposition lawmakers like Marcela Villatoro warn this marks the ‘death of democracy’ in El Salvador. Key concerns include:
- Increased risk of corruption
- Reduced checks and balances
- Limited political participation
What This Means for Cryptocurrency in El Salvador
As the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, El Salvador’s political changes could impact:
- Continuity of crypto-friendly policies
- International investment climate
- Regulatory framework stability
International Reaction and Next Steps
The global community watches closely as El Salvador becomes one of few Latin American countries to allow indefinite re-election. Key questions remain about:
- Potential international sanctions
- Impact on foreign relations
- Long-term stability prospects
This dramatic constitutional change marks a pivotal moment in El Salvador’s history. While Bukele enjoys strong domestic support, the international community remains divided on whether this represents democratic backsliding or necessary reform for a historically unstable nation. The coming years will reveal whether this move brings stability or further polarization to the Central American country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly did El Salvador change in its constitution?
El Salvador removed presidential term limits, extended terms from five to six years, and aligned presidential and congressional elections.
Can Nayib Bukele now be president for life?
Technically yes, as there are no longer any term limits preventing indefinite re-election.
How does this affect Bitcoin adoption in El Salvador?
It could ensure continuity of Bukele’s pro-Bitcoin policies, but may also create uncertainty for international investors concerned about democratic backsliding.
What percentage of Salvadorans support these changes?
Recent surveys show about 78% approval for Bukele’s governance, though specific polling on the constitutional changes isn’t widely available.
Has this happened in other countries?
Yes, several countries in Latin America and elsewhere have removed term limits, often leading to extended presidencies.
What are the main criticisms of these reforms?
Critics argue they concentrate too much power in the executive branch and weaken democratic checks and balances.
