El Salvador’s president, Nayib Bukele, said the transformation the country is experiencing has a spiritual foundation. In a message recently shared on his Instagram account, he said the nation’s change cannot be explained by political decisions alone, but by the action of God and the faith of the Salvadoran people. “God works when He is asked in faith,” he wrote.
Bukele said El Salvador has moved from being one of the most violent countries in the world to recording historically low homicide rates. According to him, this change occurred because the population chose to confront fear, insecurity and crisis with prayer and trust in God. For the president, what many once considered impossible became reality when the country put faith first.
During his administration, the government implemented a state of exception that allowed a direct offensive against gangs. These measures significantly reduced street violence and restored a sense of safety to many communities. Bukele linked these results to what he described as a “miracle with evidence,” a phrase he used to characterize the nation’s transformation.
The president has also repeatedly shared messages about the importance of prayer and dependence on God in public life. On social media and at official events, he has emphasized that faith plays a central role in decision-making and in shaping the country’s future.
Bukele’s statements have drawn both support and criticism. Christian groups have welcomed a head of state who publicly acknowledges God and highlights faith as a driving force for social transformation. In contrast, human rights organizations have criticized the state of exception, warning of arbitrary detentions and prison conditions, although the government continues to defend its security policy.
Despite the controversies, the president maintains strong popular support.
Originally published by Diario Cristiano, Christian Daily International's Spanish edition.
