El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele has publicly likened Keir Starmer’s proposed mandatory digital ID — sometimes called “BritCard” — to the futuristic “Mark of the Beast” from the Christian prophetic Book of Revelations.
Bukele, often praised for transforming El Salvador, suggested he is well aware of Starmer’s plans and the so-called Agenda 2030.
In an X post made from the president’s verified handle @nayibbukele, Bukele quoted out of Revelations 13:16-17, “And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.”
He made the quote while sharing a Starmer’s speech announcing the introduction of the mandatory digital identity system for working adults in the United Kingdom.
The move is presented as a way to tackle illegal immigration into the UK and prevent undocumented people from working, but it has reignited strong debates over privacy, surveillance, and government overreach.
What Is “BritCard”?
The proposed digital ID would store personal data — name, photo, date of birth — on a smartphone wallet. It would verify identity for jobs, public services, and housing. Critics call it invasive.
While the government calls it a tool for modernization and security, many worry it may centralise too much power over citizens’ personal data.
By labelling the ID the Mark of the Beast, Bukele gives this political proposal a conspiracy theory that feeds into the paranoia promoted by some. He steeped it in religious imagery to warn people of hidden dangers.
He claimed to know “all about Starmer & Agenda 2030,” suggesting he sees a global pattern he wants his people to resist.
Reactions and Stakes
But back in Britain successives governments had previously struggled to convince Britons to accept a national digital identification, opponents still worry about hacking risks and exclusion of those without smartphones.
Some call the system “a nightmarish surveillance system” for how it centralises data.
Even former PM Boris Johnson, said he won’t be accepting the card.
Supporters, however, argue that a clear, digital identity system will help with service delivery, reduce fraud, and modernise government.
Bukele’s voice carries weight among conservative, faith-based audiences. His framing may push opposition to this UK policy beyond Britain’s shores.,
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