U.S. Congressman James P. McGovern. U.S. Congressman James P. McGovern concluded his visit to El Salvador with sharp criticism of the Bukele’s administration state of exception, which he accused of violating human rights and fostering an environment of intimidation and self-censorship.
During his visit, McGovern, a Democratic representative from Massachusetts and co-chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, delivered strong criticism of the Salvadoran government’s policies.
McGovern stated that the state of exception, enacted in March 2022 to combat gang violence, has resulted in significant human rights abuses, widespread intimidation, and a level of self-censorship reminiscent of El Salvador’s civil war era.
Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele’s ‘state of exception’ which he purportedly imposed to go after criminal gangs is in fact being used to target trade unions, political opponents, journalists and civil society groups. James P. McGovern.
McGovern also noted that “There is nothing wrong with wanting to address gang violence or hold criminals accountable—but a state of exception with no due process where innocent people end up dying in custody is unjust and wrong.”
According to the Legal and Humanitarian Aid Agency (Socorro Jurídico Humanitario), from March 2022 to August 2024, at least 311 people died while in state custody.
The congressman expressed concern about the wider implications of these harsh security policies, warning of their impact on the Salvadoran economy and governance.
“Authoritarian regimes and economic stagnation create more migrants seeking a better life, often heading toward our southern border,” stated the congressman.
SEE ALSO: El Salvador State of Exception; A Security Measure Implemented to Fight Gangs
Meetings with Families and Political Figures
During his visit, McGovern met with families of detainees and families of individuals who had died in custody, who recounted experiences of fear, intimidation, and violations of due process under the State of Exception.
Additionally, McGovern visited Salvadoran politician Rubén Zamora, whom he praised as “a defender of justice and human rights.”
It was a pleasure to visit my friend and distinguished Salvadoran political leader Rubén Zamora at his home—a true champion for justice and human rights, and an inspiration to so many around the world. U.S. Congressman James P. McGovern.
Rubén Zamora, a former ambassador to the United States and the United Nations and a member of the FMLN political party, is facing allegations of covering up crimes related to the El Mozote massacre due to his association with the 1993 General Amnesty Law.
Zamora’s defense contends that he did not support the 1993 General Amnesty Law and even protested against it at the time.
SEE ALSO: The State of Emergency Strategy: Why Latin American Leaders Keep Turning to It
McGovern urged the U.S. government to increase efforts to promote human rights in El Salvador. “It is critical to work with our allies to correct the course in this country, restoring full respect and protection of human rights,” remarked the U.S. Congressman.
