Bukele Reacts to Shakira’s First Concert Amidst Controversy

On February 7, 2024, thousands of Salvadorans and Central Americans gathered around the Jorge ‘Mágico’ González National Stadium for Shakira’s first concert in El Salvador. This show is part of her “Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour.” With her vibrant costumes and energetic performance, the 49-year-old star attracted fans from Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua.

Bukele’s Engagement with Shakira’s Concert

Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele actively used social media to engage with the event. He shared updates about Shakira’s arrival and her enthusiastic reception in the country. Bukele’s posts included images of Colombian flags and a mural created in honor of the singer by local artist Efraín Orellana, known as TNT. He released videos leading up to the concert, showcasing the excitement surrounding Shakira’s visit.

Controversy Surrounding the Concert Series

While many were excited about the concerts, controversy loomed over the government’s involvement. The Movement of Victims of the Regime (MOVIR) in El Salvador publicly expressed concerns about the potential use of Shakira’s concerts to distract from ongoing injustices in the country. In an open letter shared on social media, they urged that Shakira’s presence not be exploited by the government.

• The letter emphasized the need for awareness of persisting injustices.
• It expressed hope that Shakira’s music would inspire a fight for freedom.
• Concerns were raised about the concerts occurring under a state of exception lasting nearly four years, which limits constitutional guarantees.

This marks Shakira’s return to El Salvador since her earlier visits in 1998 for a television show and again in 2006. As the capital readied itself for the iconic performance, fans rallied around the message of unity and hope, while grappling with the complexities of their socio-political landscape.

With Shakira’s concerts rejuvenating the local culture, the city embraced the excitement, albeit amidst mixed emotions about government policies and human rights in the nation.