El Salvador's Bukele starts second term amid economic test

El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, speaks during the launch ceremony of Google El Salvador in San Salvador, El Salvador, April 15, 2024. REUTERS/Jose Cabezas/File Photo

SAN SALVADOR (Reuters) - El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele is set to be inaugurated for a second term on Saturday, as his sky-high approval rating for a fierce crackdown on crime faces fresh challenges to rejuvenate a stagnant economy and tackle poverty in the Central American country.

The 42-year-old former nightclub manager, reelected in a landslide victory with more than 80% of the vote in February, will be sworn in for another five years following a court decision that paved the way for his re-election even though the country's constitution prohibits it.