Ecuador’s presidential runoff on April 13 features conservative President Daniel Noboa against leftist candidate Luisa González, with Noboa leading slightly in votes. The election represents a test of Noboa’s controversial policies amid significant security challenges and human rights criticisms. Turnout was high, highlighting the polarized political environment influenced by historical leadership rivalries and urgent socio-economic concerns.
In the upcoming runoff election on April 13, Ecuador’s conservative President Daniel Noboa will compete against leftist former congresswoman Luisa González. Recent results indicate Noboa has 44.31% of the vote, only slightly ahead of González, with a narrow margin of approximately 45,000 votes among 13.7 million voters. Candidates needed to secure over 50% of the votes or a minimum of 40% along with a 10-point lead to win outright in the first round.
This election serves as a pivotal assessment of Noboa’s 15-month term, which commenced following the resignation of the previous president in 2023. Noboa’s administration has focused on an “iron fist” security policy aimed at combating drug trafficking but has faced significant criticism from international organizations for alleged human rights violations.
The left-wing celebration of González’s first-round performance reflects the unexpected closeness of the contest, as many polls had predicted a more substantial victory for Noboa. González expressed to her supporters that they achieved a “great victory” by forcing this so-called “statistical tie,” emphasizing the contrast between the fear represented by Noboa and the hope her candidacy aims to deliver.
The upcoming runoff mirrors the 2023 election, in which Noboa, then a lesser-known candidate, challenged and overcame González. Observers noted this recent election proceeded smoothly, monitored by international representatives from organizations such as the European Union and the Organization of American States, leading to an impressive voter turnout of 83.4%, mandated for citizens aged 18 to 65.
Tensions surrounding security issues remain palpable, as both candidates appeared under heavy protection due to the risks encountered in past elections, where violence has claimed the lives of key figures. The electoral dynamics reveal a sharp division between followers of the Correísmo movement, linked to former president Rafael Correa, and Noboa’s anti-Correísmo camp, characterized by their minimal success against the leading candidates.
Daniel Noboa, age 37, who rose to prominence as Ecuador’s youngest president after winning a snap election, has announced various drastic measures, including declaring an “internal armed conflict” and leveraging military forces to handle rising crime, stemming from drug-trafficking organizations that have plagued the nation. Despite Ecuador’s lack of coca production, it has emerged as a significant exporter of cocaine originating from neighboring Colombia and Peru.
Although initial crime rates dropped under Noboa’s rule, the resurgence of violence and other criminal activities—such as kidnappings and abductions—has prompted experts to question the effectiveness of his policies. Additionally, logistical and constitutional challenges have arisen, including prolonged energy blackouts and conflicts with his vice president over governing authority.
Noboa’s administration experienced a total of 250 days under a state of emergency in 2024, permitting sweeping powers that raised concerns regarding civil liberties. This situation prompted serious allegations regarding his legal compliance during the election cycle, leading González to accuse him of violating laws and constitutional provisions during the campaign period.
Ecuador’s presidential election is shaping up to be a significant political contest between Daniel Noboa and Luisa González, reflecting contrasting visions for the country’s future. The election’s result not only assesses Noboa’s controversial leadership but also tests the resilience of leftist politics within Ecuador. With a closely contested first round leading to a runoff, the implications of these developments will be closely observed, particularly regarding the persistent issues of crime, governance, and civil rights in the nation.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
