El Salvador's lawmakers have approved President Nayib Bukele's request for the 24th consecutive one-month extension of an anti-gang emergency decree. This decision, made by congress late Friday, will see the country under the decree until March 27, marking a full two years since its implementation. The decree, which suspends certain rights, has been utilized by Bukele to conduct sweeps resulting in the apprehension of 78,175 suspected gang members. However, rights groups have raised concerns about the arbitrary nature of these arrests, often based on appearance or location, leading to the release of about 7,000 individuals due to insufficient evidence.
The measure received approval with 67 votes in the 84-seat congress, where Bukele's party holds the majority. The original 30-day state of emergency was enacted on March 27, 2022, following a day with 62 reported killings. This decree restricts rights such as the right to assemble, be informed of rights, and access to legal representation, while also extending the detention period without charges to 15 days.
