El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele received a warm welcome at the Conservative Political Action Conference near Washington, where he urged people to fight against what he called “dark forces.” Bukele shared his experience of gangs taking control of his country and society, emphasizing the need to arrest criminals and remove corrupt judges. Speaking in fluent English, he warned the audience to be aware of similar forces in the United States and stressed the importance of identifying and combating them.
Bukele declared a war on gangs nearly two years ago, detaining over 76,000 Salvadorans in an effort to break the cycle of violence that has plagued the country for decades. While his policies have garnered broad support and led to his reelection for a second term, human rights groups have raised concerns about the lack of evidence and due process in many of the arrests. There have been documented cases of widespread abuses reminiscent of the country’s civil war in the 1980s.
During his speech, Bukele recounted the challenges El Salvador faced in reclaiming its country after years of conflict and turmoil, noting the sacrifices and struggles that were necessary to restore order. The audience responded enthusiastically, with one person even acknowledging Bukele’s role in the country’s transformation. As Bukele left the conference hall, attendees cheered, chanted his name, and expressed their support for his leadership, highlighting his reputation as an authoritarian leader who is determined to combat corruption with a firm hand.
Many attendees at the conference praised Bukele for his approach to governance, describing him as a smart and determined leader who is making a positive impact in El Salvador. Some expressed admiration for his strong stance against corruption and his ability to govern effectively, despite his authoritarian tendencies. Bukele’s presence at the event was met with enthusiasm, with supporters eager to take pictures with him and engage in discussions about his policies and vision for the future.
Overall, Bukele’s speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference showcased his leadership style and the challenges he has faced in transforming El Salvador. By sharing his experiences and emphasizing the need to confront dark forces, Bukele resonated with the audience and highlighted the importance of strong leadership in addressing social and political issues. His presence at the conference underscored his growing reputation as a dynamic and influential leader in the region, with supporters praising his efforts to combat corruption and violence in El Salvador.
