El Salvador’s President Bukele Uses Sports to Deflect Criticism of Gang Crackdown

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Amidst mounting criticism of his aggressive measures against gangs, President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador sought to divert attention by embracing sports. Addressing a massive crowd of enthusiastic sports fans, Bukele refuted accusations of dictatorship and invited people to ask ordinary citizens about the safety and perception of El Salvador. The opening ceremony of the 2023 Central American and Caribbean Games became a platform for Bukele to showcase a safer country, despite allegations of human rights violations and democratic erosion under his rule.

Concerned observers argue that events like these, often labeled as “sportswashing,” allow autocratic governments to distract from controversies, improve their image, and project a modern facade to the world. This tactic has been employed by authoritarian leaders worldwide, with recent examples including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s investments in international sporting events.

While crime rates have dropped significantly in El Salvador due to Bukele’s crackdown on gangs, the government’s methods have drawn international condemnation, including from the Biden administration. Around 70,000 individuals, suspected of gang affiliation but with limited evidence, have been detained, with reports of minimal due process. Despite the criticism, Bukele’s approval ratings remain high, and his populist approach has garnered attention from neighboring countries, with politicians seeking to emulate his success.

The decline in violence has allowed Bukele’s government to host major events like the Central American and Caribbean Games and the upcoming Miss Universe pageant, portraying El Salvador in a positive light. The opening ceremony of the games featured technological innovations and renowned artists, contributing to the perception of a transformed nation. While supporters of Bukele enthusiastically embrace this new era, critics argue that the government is neglecting the plight of those affected by its harsh measures.

In addition to the sports spectacle, Bukele’s government has taken steps to consolidate power, such as reducing elected positions and diminishing the influence of the judiciary. Legal experts and opposition politicians see these actions as part of a broader strategy to solidify Bukele’s control ahead of the upcoming elections in February 2023. Critics argue that these moves undermine the principles enshrined in El Salvador’s constitution and limit democratic representation.

Bukele’s party, Nuevas Ideas, announced his intention to seek reelection on Twitter, sparking controversy. Despite using social media as his primary communication channel, Bukele has shared minimal information about his reelection campaign, instead focusing on posting videos of sports matches and other non-political content. Sportswashing remains an effective strategy for autocratic governments, although social media has made it more challenging to present major sporting events as apolitical.

While many Salvadorans celebrate the positive changes and vibrant atmosphere brought by the games, there are individuals and groups who continue to suffer under Bukele’s aggressive policies. Activists, union leaders, and opposition figures claim that intimidation tactics have escalated during the election season, with detentions and threats becoming more common. The fear of reprisals, imprisonment, and harassment haunts those who dare to criticize the government’s actions.

As gymnasts, swimmers, and runners competed within the stadium, largely unaware of the surrounding political developments, ordinary citizens like Ingrid Escobar faced ongoing fears and threats. The games provided a brief respite from everyday worries, but for those directly affected by the crackdown, the impact remains unignorable.

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