816.01 Caffery Mission/7: Telegram
The Minister in El Salvador (Curtis) to the Secretary of State
[Received 9 p.m.]
123. From Jefferson Caffery. Last night I told Martínez categorically that under no circumstances could we recognize him and I explained why. He replied that he was exceedingly sorry to hear this as article 52, paragraph 5, of the constitution precluded him as Vice President from resigning. (This, obviously, is merely an excuse.)
Because of our stand we shall probably be bitterly attacked here as Martínez has won the support of the nation at large.
As there seems to be nothing to be gained by appealing further to Martínez direct, I am now trying to find other means of approach to our problem. As you know, the situation is complicated by the fact that under the constitution of El Salvador there is no impediment to Martínez automatically succeeding to the Presidency. In fact, there is no way under the constitution for him not to succeed. (Of course, he can always resign.)
I am continuing my investigations and I hope to send a definite report in a few days. In the meantime the attention of the Department is invited to two important factors which have already emerged:
- 1.
- It appears to be definitely established that it would not be wise to call the present Assembly in extraordinary session because of the number of agitator deputies placed there by Araujo. It is impossible to predict what they may do. Therefore, a new slate of designates can be elected soon after February by the new Assembly.
- 2.
- The military element now fully controls the situation, and the country at large is now accepting its control almost with enthusiasm. It is obvious that whoever succeeds Martínez can do so only with its support.
- [Caffery]
- Curtis