El Salvador Authorities Thwart Bomb Plot Ahead of President Bukele's Inauguration

On the eve of President Nayib Bukele's inauguration, authorities in El Salvador announced they had foiled a plot to plant bombs at gas stations, supermarkets, and government offices. The scheme, attributed to the 'Salvadoran Insurrection Brigade' and former congressman José Santos Melara, was planned to coincide with the president's inauguration on June 1.

The National Police conducted raids in several locations, including a former rebel stronghold in Guazapa, on the outskirts of San Salvador. They seized small cylinders of explosives with fuses and sacks of ammonium nitrate. At least eight suspects, including Melara, were detained in connection with the plot.

Why this matters: The foiled bomb plot in El Salvador has significant implications for the country's political stability and security, particularly given the controversial presidency of Nayib Bukele. The incident could lead to further unrest and tensions in the region, potentially affecting international relations and economic stability.

Melara, a leader of the national association of FMLN Veterans of the war, was accused of financing the plans. The Block of Popular Resistance and Rebellion (BPR) condemned Melara's arrest as 'arbitrary' and 'an act of political persecution,' vowing to 'start a new stage of struggle' against Bukele's government.

President Bukele, who easily won a second term in February's presidential elections despite the country's constitution prohibiting reelection, has faced criticism for his anti-gang raids and mass arrests. His administration has been accused of endangering El Salvador's fragile democracy, which was restored after the brutal civil war.

The supposed bomb plot may be linked to the 1992 peace accords that ended the civil war and guaranteed former rebels a place in politics. Bukele's government has also been criticized for moves such as slashing the number of seats in Congress to favor his party.

The BPR stated, 'We do not recognize the unconstitutional and illegitimate president who will take office on June 1.' They also declared, 'We will start a new stage of struggle in the face of Bukele's imposition as president.'

As Bukele prepares to be sworn in for his second term, the country remains divided over his leadership. While his crackdown on gangs has led to a significant reduction in crime, it has also drawn allegations of abuse and unjust imprisonment.

Saturday's inauguration will be attended by several international dignitaries, including the presidents of Argentina, Ecuador, and Honduras, plus representatives from the United States government and the King of Spain.

The thwarted bomb plot highlights the ongoing tensions and challenges facing El Salvador as it charts its political future under Bukele's leadership.

Key Takeaways

• El Salvador authorities foil bomb plot targeting gas stations, supermarkets, and government offices.
• Plot attributed to "Salvadoran Insurrection Brigade" and former congressman José Santos Melara.
• At least 8 suspects detained, including Melara, with explosives and ammonium nitrate seized.
• Opposition groups condemn Melara's arrest, vow to "start a new stage of struggle" against President Bukele.
• Bukele's presidency faces criticism for anti-gang raids, mass arrests, and alleged threats to democracy.