Nayib Bukele Registers for Third Term in 2027 El Salvador Presidential Election

President Nayib Bukele filed his pre-candidacy for a third term in the 2027 election, announced on June 29, 2026. Vice President Félix Ulloa also registered. Both will appear on the Nuevas Ideas primary ballot on July 12, 2026, and party officials say they face no challengers.

The Straits Times

In July 2025, the Legislative Assembly approved a constitutional amendment that shortened Bukele’s five-year term, which began in 2024, and established a six-year term starting June 2027. The amendment removed the ban on consecutive re-election, allowing indefinite re-election of the president.

The Straits Times

President Bukele, 45, leads the Nuevas Ideas party, which he founded and controls the executive and legislative majority. His cousin Xavi Zablah is the party’s Secretary General. Vice President Félix Ulloa, an ally, is a pre-candidate. The party’s structure and the constitutional changes have concentrated power within this core group.

Bukele takes the step: pre-candidate for a third term

• July 2025 – Assembly passes amendment for indefinite re-election and six-year terms.

The Straits Times

• December 2025 – Bukele says he is open to serving a decade more.

The Straits Times

• June 29 2026 – Bukele and Ulloa register as NI pre-candidates; announcement posted on X.

Bukele takes the step: pre-candidate for a third term

• July 12 2026 – NI primary (expected uncontested).

The Straits Times

• February 2027 – National election; June 2027 – Six-year term starts.

The Straits Times

• 2033 – End of Bukele’s tenure if re-elected.

The Straits Times

Bukele turns 45 in July 2026. The new presidential term lasts six years, extending the previous five-year cycle. A state of emergency since 2022 has coincided with a homicide decline, boosting Bukele’s approval in polls. The general election is set for February 2027, with the term starting June 2027.

The Straits Times

NI Secretary General Xavi Zablah posted a brief message stating the party is ready on X to announce the registrations. Vice President Ulloa thanked Zablah for “this new opportunity to continue contributing to transforming the country.” Bukele has not commented, though a December 2025 interview indicated his willingness to serve up to ten years.

Bukele takes the step: pre-candidate for a third term

• “We are ready,” — Xavi Zablah, Secretary General, Nuevas Ideas

The Straits Times

• “Decades and centuries of frustrated dreams are beginning to become reality. Our wise and patient people know it and accompany us,” — Félix Ulloa, Vice President of El Salvador

Bukele takes the step: pre-candidate for a third term

The constitutional changes and Bukele’s pre-candidacy suggest a continuation of his policies for an extended period. Indefinite re-election removes a democratic safeguard, concentrating executive power while the ruling party retains legislative control. Supporters cite reduced homicides and economic initiatives; critics, not present in the sources, have warned of democratic backsliding.

The Straits Times

The sources do not mention any intra-party challengers, opposition party positions, or independent polling data beyond general popularity. No dissenting commentary is presented, leaving a gap in understanding broader public or international reactions.

The Straits Times

The NI primary on July 12, 2026 will confirm Bukele and Ulloa as nominees. The February 2027 election will decide if Bukele secures a third term, potentially extending his presidency to 2033. Observers will watch the six-year term’s implementation and any legal challenges.

Bukele takes the step: pre-candidate for a third term