The CONAIE Indigenous organization and leftist groups have declined to support President Daniel Noboa in the upcoming election, instead asking candidate Luisa Gonzalez to respond to their proposals. The Indigenous vote appears divided, with some backing Noboa despite criticisms of his policies. Key proposals include halting privatizations, lowering sales tax, and opposing an IMF deal, highlighting the critical socio-economic issues at stake.
In a significant political development, the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) and leftist social organizations have declared their unwillingness to support President Daniel Noboa in the upcoming April run-off election. Instead, they have requested leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez to address a series of proposals they provided.
The Indigenous electorate in Ecuador exhibits a divided stance, with some factions expressing support for Noboa. During the initial round of voting in February, Noboa narrowly defeated Gonzalez by less than 1%. This close contest has elevated the influence of Leonidas Iza, CONAIE’s leader, who received 5.25% of the votes.
Despite the criticisms by CONAIE regarding Noboa’s security and economic strategies, various Indigenous and social organizations have voiced their intent to support him in completing the term of his predecessor. Among the proposals directed towards Gonzalez are calls for halting privatizations and large-scale mining projects, discontinuing Noboa’s aggressive stance on crime, reducing the sales tax from 15% back to 12%, and opposing Ecuador’s agreement with the International Monetary Fund.
Concurrently, the CONFENIAE, which represents Indigenous groups from the Amazon and is part of CONAIE, has indicated its support for Noboa, provided there is an opportunity for dialogue on policies affecting the Amazon. Additionally, the party of former candidate Andrea Gonzalez, who finished fourth in the February election, has also committed to backing Noboa.
In conclusion, the political landscape in Ecuador is displaying significant divisions among Indigenous organizations regarding their support for presidential candidates. While some factions align with President Noboa and seek constructive dialogue, others are pushing for substantial reforms from candidate Luisa Gonzalez, emphasizing economic and social justice issues. The outcome of the April run-off will be heavily influenced by these dynamics and the responses to the proposals set forth by CONAIE and allied groups.
Original Source: www.thestar.com.my
