In the wake of a Christmas message from the Salvadoran President, many Cubans have expressed a desire for leadership similar to that of Nayib Bukele on the island.
Bukele shared scenes from the holiday celebrations in San Salvador's historical center, highlighting his administration's efforts in revitalizing the area. "El Salvador was always considered an underdeveloped nation, but the worst, most dangerous, neglected, and battered place was the Historical Center of San Salvador," he explained.
The president recounted how the center was devastated by earthquakes, a civil war, years of disorder, and over three decades of gang activity. Despite these challenges and the higher costs associated with restoration compared to developing a new area, Bukele's government set out to reclaim it as a testament to El Salvador's revival.
His post attracted comments from numerous Cubans who yearn for a similar transformation in Cuba. Though criticized for his authoritarian tendencies, Bukele is praised for his achievements in security and economic growth.
Elsy Candelario remarked, "When money isn't stolen, there's enough to go around. That's the best thing Bukele has said. He's the greatest president of all time. Blessings to him. I hope my Cuba someday has a leader who's at least half as good as he is. Congratulations, El Salvador."
Similarly, Ileana Molina believes El Salvador needed someone who feels the country belongs to its people, "not to tyrants and criminals."
"It's clear to me, and those who don't want to understand should reflect... Cuba needs someone like Bukele, period," she added.
Yassu Ríos commented, "I hope God sends a leader like you to my Cuba. With your ideas, if God sent you to El Salvador, I hope he does the same for countries like Cuba, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Haiti, Mexico, Korea... countries where corrupt governments have caused total misery."
Madelyn Perera questioned whether "we can hope for something as beautiful as that in our country, Cuba?"
Is Authoritarianism Acceptable?
In August, El Salvador enacted a constitutional reform, passed without debate by a dominant official majority, allowing indefinite presidential re-election, extending presidential terms, and eliminating runoff elections.
This signifies a significant shift in the Salvadoran political system, removing the last legal barriers to Nayib Bukele's indefinite stay in power. The opposition and multiple international organizations have labeled this move as a clear step towards authoritarianism.
Since taking office in 2019, Bukele has enjoyed widespread support. His crackdown on gangs, initiated under a state of emergency in 2022, has been lauded by many for its effectiveness in reducing homicides. Official figures indicate that El Salvador has transitioned from being among the world's most violent countries to one of the safest.
However, this security has come at a significant human rights cost. Tens of thousands have been detained without sufficient evidence or proper legal proceedings. Conditions in prisons such as CECOT have been described as inhumane by various organizations.
Bukele has dismissed the criticism with disdain: "You know what? I don't care if they call me a dictator. I'd rather be called a dictator than witness Salvadorans being killed in the streets," he stated in January 2025.
Key Questions About Bukele's Leadership
Why do some Cubans wish for a leader like Nayib Bukele?
Many Cubans admire Bukele for his achievements in security and economic improvements, hoping for similar progress and leadership in Cuba.
What changes did Bukele implement in El Salvador?
Bukele focused on revitalizing the Historical Center of San Salvador, reducing gang violence, and implementing constitutional reforms that extend presidential terms and allow indefinite re-election.
What are the criticisms against Bukele's administration?
Critics point to Bukele's authoritarian tendencies, human rights violations, and the indefinite extension of his presidential term as major concerns.