Félix Ulloa, Vice President of El Salvador: "People want Bukele's state of emergency, they feel protected"
Félix Ulloa, the Vice President of El Salvador, claims that the public supports President Bukele's state of emergency due to feelings of protection and safety.
Félix Ulloa, Vice President of El Salvador, expressed strong support for President Nayib Bukele's controversial state of emergency policy during his visit to Spain. He argues that the Salvadorean people feel safer under Bukele's leadership, which he describes as a strong and decisive model. Ulloa highlights the transformation El Salvador has undergone in recent years, asserting that the country has experienced significant improvements in security and economic growth, with an increase in tourism and a burgeoning surf culture.
Ulloa’s comments come in the context of ongoing international criticism of Bukele's administration. Despite this, he insists that there is a widespread desire for leadership similar to Bukele's across the Americas, characterizing the political landscape as divided between 'bukelefóbicos' (those who oppose Bukele) and 'bukelefílicos' (those in favor). He points to the recent influx of tourists and cultural events, such as Shakira's performances, as indicators of a changed and improving national image.
The implications of Ulloa's statements are significant, as they highlight the ongoing debate over the effectiveness and ethicality of Bukele's governance. While Ulloa's assertions reflect a strong nationalist sentiment and pride in recent progress, they also raise questions about the potential risks associated with authoritarian governance and the dissenting voices that may be stifled under such a regime. The discourse around Bukele's leadership will likely continue to shape both domestic and international perceptions of El Salvador's direction in the coming years.