British Ambassador to El Salvador, David Lelliott, announced this morning that he has conducted a meeting with the President of the Republic, Nayib Bukele, as part of a series of encounters with potential presidential candidates for the upcoming 2024 elections.
“As a privilege to meet President Nayib Bukele and to understand his policies and priorities, this is part of our meetings with political parties and candidates,” Lelliott shared on his Twitter account.
On September 5th, the European diplomat revealed his intention to hold meetings with all presidential candidates competing in next year’s elections to gain insight into their plans and contribute to the transparency and democracy of the electoral process.
“We are not endorsing any specific candidate or party. The intention is to engage with all parties to hear their perspectives and ensure the fairest and freest possible elections,” explained Lelliott.
So far, Ambassador Lelliott has met with five candidates, including the incumbent President, Nayib Bukele.
Previously, he had conversations with the presidential duo from the Independent Salvadoran Party (PAIS), José Cardoza and Irma Sosa. He also met with the presidential candidate from the Solidarity Force party, José Renderos, and with Luis Parada, the candidate for Nuestro Tiempo.
On September 6th, the Ambassador also announced that he had a meeting with the candidate from the Nationalist Republican Alliance (ARENA), Joel Sánchez.
These meetings have allowed for open dialogue with the British Embassy representative, strengthening democratic principles in preparation for the 2024 elections.
The only remaining presidential candidates yet to meet with the British Ambassador are Manuel Flores from the Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN) and Marina Murillo from the Salvadoran Patriotic Fraternity (FPS).