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Noboa Secures Mandate in Ecuador’s Presidential Run-Off
In a decisive outcome, Daniel Noboa, the sitting president of Ecuador, has been declared the winner of the run-off election, allowing him to serve a complete four-year term. Speaking to the media in Santa Elena, Noboa confidently asserted that there was “no doubt as to who the winner” is, following a tense electoral season.
Noboa, who took office in November 2023 after a snap election, referred to his victory as “historic.” His administration has thus far been characterized by aggressive measures against violent criminal organizations, as Ecuador grapples with escalating levels of violence, making it one of the most dangerous countries in the region.
His opponent, Luisa González, has rejected the election results, alleging fraud without supplying substantiating evidence. Addressing her supporters in Quito on election night, she expressed discontent with the process.
According to the official figures from the national electoral council, Noboa achieved approximately 56% of the votes, a significant lead over his rival, particularly surprising given pre-election polls that suggested a much closer race. Following the announcement of the results, Noboa characterized his victory as one “of more than ten points and over 1 million votes,” asserting a clear outcome.
His win enables him to pursue a rigorous approach to combating drug-related crime, with plans to further militarize public spaces and enhance prison security through the construction of new maximum-security facilities. In a recent interview, Noboa expressed his desire for support from foreign military forces, including those from the United States and Europe, to aid in the ongoing fight against gangs. He is also looking to amend the constitution to re-establish foreign military bases prohibited during Rafael Correa’s presidency, a key figure linked to González.
Despite a slight decrease in homicides during Noboa’s presidency, violence remains a pressing issue. January registered over 780 murders, marking one of the deadliest months on record for Ecuador. As security has emerged as a primary concern for the electorate, Noboa faces the challenge of demonstrating progress in reducing violent crime and addressing unemployment as he ventures into his new term.
Moreover, Noboa’s popularity has experienced fluctuations, particularly after severe droughts led to significant power shortages nationwide. In response, he has suggested increasing investments in renewable energy to reduce dependency on hydropower, which currently constitutes the bulk of Ecuador’s energy supply.
In addition, he has expressed intentions to deepen relations with the United States, highlighting initiatives such as imposing tariffs on Mexican imports and reversing a prior executive order that granted amnesty to undocumented Venezuelan migrants.
Noboa, at 37 years old, uniquely targeted younger voters during his campaign, emphasizing job creation and leveraging engaging social media strategies. Infrastructure development and anti-corruption measures were also central themes.
González’s response to her loss included accusations against electoral authorities for undermining democracy and demands for a recount. For a recount to occur, she must provide evidence to support her claims.
This election outcome has left Ecuador politically fractured, posing additional challenges for Noboa moving forward. Many of González’s supporters long for the perceived economic stability of Correa’s administration (2007-2017), a period marked by boosted oil revenues and declining poverty rates. However, Correa remains a polarizing figure, with critics labeling his leadership as authoritarian and highlighting his conviction for corruption, which forced him into exile. González’s association with Correa adds another dimension to the current political landscape.
Source
www.bbc.com