Abinader declines to comment on El Salvador’s constitutional reforms

Santo Domingo.- President Luis Abinader chose not to comment on El Salvador’s recent constitutional reforms that allow indefinite presidential reelection and extend the presidential term from five to six years. Speaking briefly during a media briefing at the National Palace, Abinader stated, “I’m not going to interfere in other countries’ affairs.”

El Salvador’s ruling party approved changes on July 31 that remove term limits and the runoff election, enabling President Nayib Bukele to seek a third consecutive term. Bukele defended the reforms on social media, arguing that most developed countries allow indefinite reelection and questioning the international criticism, which he claims unfairly targets El Salvador.

In contrast, Abinader reiterated that he has no plans to seek a third term. After his 2024 reelection, he successfully pushed for constitutional “locks” in Congress to prevent term extensions. He stressed that the Dominican Constitution permits only two terms and pledged to leave office in 2028, promising to safeguard the country’s democratic health.