El Salvador Ends Presidential Term Limits, Increases Term Length to Six Years

El Salvador’s Legislative Assembly has approved major constitutional changes, removing presidential term limits and extending each presidential term from five to six years. The move, passed by a supermajority dominated by President Nayib Bukele’s party, has reshaped the country’s political landscape.

The changes also eliminate the requirement for runoff elections, allowing a candidate to win the presidency with just a simple majority. Additionally, beginning in 2027, the country will hold presidential, legislative, and municipal elections on the same date, aiming to streamline the electoral calendar.

President Bukele, who was re-elected in 2024, now has a pathway to seek further terms under the new system. While government supporters argue that the reforms bring stability and modernization, critics warn that concentrating power in this way could weaken democratic checks and balances.

With these amendments now in place, El Salvador enters a new phase in its governance, with significant implications for the country’s democratic future.

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