SAN SALVADOR – When El Salvador’s legislative assembly confirmed little-known Douglas Melendez as attorney general in 2016, many here thought it was business as usual in a country where high-level corruption has long gone unpunished.

But in less than three years, Melendez has put one former president in prison, investigated another and has a third in his sights. He has also jailed his predecessor, a judge and a top businessman, among others. Some in El Salvador’s political class have seen enough.

Congress must vote before January 5 on whether the 52-year-old career prosecutor can stay on for another three-year term. Despite international support, Melendez has powerful opponents in the ruling leftist party. El Salvador’s lawmakers could make their decision as soon as this week. Even if he survives that vote, the backlash is likely to continue. Melendez said he has received death threats. And the leading candidate in February’s presidential contest has talked of jail time for Melendez.(Reuters)…[+]