President Bukele of Salvador Threatens Harsh Measures Against Price Gougers

Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, known for his stringent measures against street gangs, has now threatened similar actions against price gougers. Since 2022, Bukele has detained tens of thousands of suspected gang members, often with minimal evidence, and showcased them being marched in their underwear through large new prisons.

In a speech on Friday night, Bukele warned wholesalers and distributors responsible for recent sharp increases in food and basic goods prices. "I am going to issue a call, like we did to the gangs at the start of 2019," Bukele said, referring to his first year in office. "We told them either stop killing people, or don’t complain about what happens afterward." He continued, "Well, I’m going to issue a message to the importers, distributors and food wholesalers: stop abusing the people of El Salvador, or don’t complain about what happens afterward."

Emergency Powers and Popularity

Bukele was recently reelected with 85% of the vote and holds control over Congress. He has been granted special emergency powers to combat gangs for over two years. While these powers likely don't permit him to imprison individuals for high pricing alone, he claimed there is evidence that some wholesalers or importers have engaged in tax evasion, bribery, and smuggling—crimes that could lead to imprisonment.

The Salvadoran government reported that inspectors found some products had tripled in price. Although fines are an option, they may not suffice. The government also plans to establish 20 sales points to distribute food "at fair prices." This aligns with Bukele's character, who once called himself the "world’s coolest dictator."

Impact on Crime Rates

Bukele's aggressive stance against powerful gangs has earned him significant popularity. These gangs once dominated many neighborhoods, extorting protection money from businesses and residents. His crackdown has transformed El Salvador from one of the world's murder capitals into one of Latin America's safest countries.

The state of emergency declared in 2022 remains in effect and has led to the arrest of 78,175 suspected gang members. Rights groups argue these arrests are often arbitrary, based on appearance or location. The government has released about 7,000 individuals due to insufficient evidence.

Bukele emphasized that his threats are genuine and not mere bluster. "I expect the prices to come down by tomorrow or there are going to be problems," he stated firmly.