Former El Salvador President Mauricio Funes Dies in Exile at 65

Mauricio Funes, former President of El Salvador, has died in Nicaragua at 65 after a long illness. He sought refuge there to evade multiple convictions for corruption and gang-related crimes. Funes is noted for his controversial governance from 2009 to 2014 as a member of the FMLN. His legacy is complicated by legal troubles and a strained relationship with current President Nayib Bukele.

Former President of El Salvador, Mauricio Funes, passed away in Nicaragua at the age of 65 after battling a severe chronic illness. His demise occurred late Tuesday, as reported by Nicaragua’s Health Ministry. Funes sought refuge in Nicaragua to evade multiple criminal convictions, including significant corruption charges, and lived under the protection of President Daniel Ortega who granted him citizenship to prevent extradition.

Funes governed from 2009 to 2014, representing the Farabundo Martí National Liberation Front (FMLN), which emerged from the civil war. His governance is marred by accusations of corruption and dealings with violent street gangs, leading to a cumulative sentence of 28 years; however, he never served prison time. Nicaragua’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has announced his family’s decision to inter him in Nicaragua.

Born in San Salvador on October 18, 1959, Funes began his career as a teacher before becoming a renowned war journalist and television host. His political ascent began when he was nominated by the FMLN, which sought to rebrand itself post-civil war. His victory in the 2009 elections was marked by widespread support, despite later allegations of governance missteps and corruption.

As of 2016, Funes resided in Nicaragua due to ongoing legal troubles. He was tried in absentia six times, receiving multiple convictions for corruption-related offenses, including a significant sentence in May 2023 for making deals with gangs during his presidency. Notably, his administration faced accusations of embezzlement and other illicit activities involving substantial public funds.

Funes’ presidency remains controversial, following which the FMLN continued to govern under President Salvador Sánchez Cerén until 2019. Funes maintained a contentious relationship with current President Nayib Bukele, with both publicly clashing over their respective policies and accusations of corruption.

Mauricio Funes was a significant figure in El Salvador’s political landscape, having served as president for a single term from 2009 to 2014. Initially a promising leader with a background in journalism, his administration was ultimately tainted by corruption scandals. Following his presidency, Funes faced numerous criminal charges, which led him to seek asylum in Nicaragua, where he lived under the protection of President Ortega. His complex political legacy reflects the ongoing challenges of governance and the intersection of crime and politics in El Salvador.

Mauricio Funes’ death marks the end of a contentious political era in El Salvador, characterized by leadership marred by corruption and controversy. His life in exile speaks to the severe consequences of his administration’s actions, which continue to echo in the country’s political dynamics. The FMLN party, despite its historical significance, faces challenges in redefining its place in contemporary Salvadoran politics following Funes’ convictions and the emergence of new political players like President Bukele.

Original Source: www.kob.com