In a recent interview with Spanish newspaper El País, Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, acknowledged the extensive social backing for El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele. Borrell emphasized the importance of democracy, stating that it is essential to listen to the opinions and will of the citizens, and it appears that President Bukele enjoys substantial social support.
During his visit to the Guatemalan region of Petén, Borrell announced a significant investment of 50 million euros for the sustainable management of the forest in that area. While expressing his views on President Bukele, Borrell noted that one may have varying degrees of agreement with specific policies, but ultimately, it is up to the citizens to pass their judgment.
Borrell dismissed comparisons between President Bukele and Nicaragua’s leader, Daniel Ortega, asserting that the situations in both countries are distinct. He pointed out that Nicaragua lacks free elections, making it impossible for its citizens to express their verdict on the government, unlike in El Salvador.
The EU Diplomacy Chief highlighted the political crisis in Nicaragua, where the Ortega regime has imprisoned opposition figures, religious leaders, and shut down NGOs and universities critical of the government. He stressed that the alleged dictatorial nature of President Bukele’s administration, as claimed by El Salvador’s political opposition, is not comparable to the situation in Nicaragua.
President Bukele, running as the candidate for Nuevas Ideas in the upcoming presidential election on February 4th, has faced criticism from political opponents who liken his governance style to that of Ortega. The EU’s Borrell emphasized that it is the voters who will have the final say in deciding whether to support Bukele’s reelection.
Recent public opinion polls, including those conducted by the Center for Public Opinion Studies (CEOP) of the Dr. Guillermo Manuel Ungo Foundation (Fundaungo), indicate that President Bukele’s leadership enjoys widespread approval. Approximately nine out of ten citizens appreciate Bukele’s efforts in reducing crime and implementing exceptional measures. Another survey by the Francisco Gavidia University (UFG) shows over 70% of Salvadorans consider Bukele the best presidential candidate, with 90% supporting his reelection.
As the Salvadoran political landscape intensifies ahead of the elections, Borrell’s recognition of President Bukele’s social support adds a new dimension to the ongoing discussions about the country’s political future.