Foreign Relations of the United States: Diplomatic Papers, 1944, The American Republics, Volume VII

816.00/10–2644: Telegram

The Chargé in El Salvador (Gade) to the Secretary of State

San Salvador, October 26, 1944—11 a.m.
[Received 6:29 p.m.]

349. Embassy’s telegram 345, 25th,³⁵ The Embassy has unofficially received a copy of the unanimous opinion of the Supreme Court to the effect that the Aguirre government is illegal. Original will be presented to National Assembly today.

Court holds that according to constitution of 1886, resigning president must be succeeded by the first designate, that it is clearly stated in the constitution that the ranking of designates is determined by their dates of appointment and that hence Colonel Aguirre as last appointed is third designate, Miguel Tomás Molina as first appointed is first designate and Sarbelio Navarrete second.

Molina has confidentially told an officer of this Embassy that with the support of the Supreme Court and based on this opinion, he intends to declare himself provisional constitutional president today or tomorrow. He has the backing of the Liberal elements. Text of opinion by airmail.³⁶

Gade

35. Not printed.
36. Copy of Spanish text and hastily prepared translation transmitted in despatch 2103, October 26; revised translation transmitted in despatch 2106, October 26; none printed.