El Salvador legislature extends state of exception for another month

The Legislative Assembly voted 57‑1 to extend the state of exception for 30 days, marking the 53rd renewal since March 2022. The extension keeps extraordinary powers for security and justice institutions, suspending three fundamental rights until August 28: administrative detention of up to 15 days, immunity of telecommunications and correspondence, and immediate legal defense in early investigations. Over 90,000 people have been detained under the regime, which the government argues is essential to maintain low homicide rates.

Deputy Christian Guevara (Nuevas Ideas) requested a waiver of procedural rules for the vote, while the lone dissenting vote came from Claudia Ortiz (VAMOS). The move continues the government's security strategy against gangs, despite public perception that safety improvements are limited.