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The Power of Brothers: How Yusef Bukele Influenced His Brother to Become President of El Salvador?
In El Salvador, one family’s story is shaping the country’s political future. Yusef Alí Bukele Ortez, a young businessman and consultant working hard in the economic and political fields, is an important assistant and brother of the current President Nayib Bukele. Yusef’s influence does not stop at the private sector, but also penetrates deeply into the formulation of government policies, especially in the process of Bitcoin becoming a legal tender. How, exactly, did the brothers’ relationship shape El Salvador’s political landscape?
Early life
Yusef Bukele was born in El Salvador in 1989 to Armando Bukele Kattán and Olga Marina Ortez. He has a twin brother Ibrajim and two older brothers Nayib and Karim. Bukele graduated from Central American University in 2014, majoring in economics. His graduation thesis is titled "Theoretical and practical comparison of neoclassical and Marxist theories in the relationship between skilled labor, productivity and wages." Before entering politics, Yusef was the manager of Obermet S.A. de C.V.
Political career
Role in Nuevas Ideas and Government
Before the 2019 presidential election, Yusef had great confidence in his brother Nayib's candidacy, believing that he could win in the first round. His remarks on the election showed his foresight and political judgment:
"I think the key to winning is to defend the vote, especially against the attacks on ARENA and FMLN."
Eventually, Nayib was elected in 2019, and Yusef subsequently became his main economic adviser, responsible for private sector labor affairs. Although Yusef was not appointed to the cabinet, he had considerable say in national policy. A former FMLN secretary said he had "incredible influence" on national affairs.
Advocacy for the legalization of Bitcoin
In May and June 2021, Bukele, his twin brothers, and other Salvadoran officials met with foreign investors to discuss the possibility of introducing digital currency in the country. In a meeting with U.S. cryptocurrency executives, he stressed that Salvadorans would not have to pay high remittance fees. His efforts eventually led to Bitcoin being declared legal tender in El Salvador, and his role in this process cannot be underestimated:
"I helped influence Nayib to approve Bitcoin as legal tender."
In subsequent meetings, Yusef considered further developing Bitcoin business models, including building a Bitcoin city and issuing Bitcoin bonds.
Personal life
As of December 2019, Yusef is engaged to Pamela Abarco. But he and his brother Mark Fu have not escaped controversy. In 2021, state prosecutors launched an investigation into Yusef and his brothers in a corruption network case called "Operation Cathedral," which was eventually closed when the prosecutor was replaced.
Conclusion
The life of Yusef Bukele and his political activities not only demonstrate the influence of individuals in the political arena, but also reveal the importance of family relationships in national policies and future directions. Through his collaboration with his brother Nayib, we see the outlines of a new political era gradually emerging. So, can the bond between brothers continue to support the political ideals they pursue?
