El Salvador approves life sentences for serious crimes

The Legislative Assembly of El Salvador, with a pro-government majority, has approved a constitutional reform promoted by President Nayib Bukele that introduces life imprisonment for “murderers, rapists, and terrorists.”

The measure comes shortly after the publication of an international report accusing the government of crimes against humanity during the current state of emergency, CE Report quotes ANSA.

The president openly challenged critics: “We will see who dares to defend the idea that the Constitution should continue to prohibit keeping murderers and rapists in prison.”

The amendment to Article 27, which previously banned life sentences in favor of rehabilitation, was passed without any debate.

The Minister of Security, Gustavo Villatoro, harshly attacked human rights organizations in parliament: “Now we will see these organizations defend, as always, violent criminals. You have no sovereign legitimacy over this country. Go to hell.”

The government has also launched a social media campaign against international media outlets, accusing them of demanding the release of all arrested criminals.