Ecuador’s presidential election is highly competitive, with current President Daniel Noboa holding a narrow lead over leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez as votes are still being counted. Noboa has 44.21% and Gonzalez 43.91%. Gonzalez, backed by ex-president Rafael Correa, is focused on change and human rights. Both candidates are addressing the country’s violence and economic struggles, with Noboa’s administration facing scrutiny for its security policies amidst rising crime and public debt.
Presidential Election in Ecuador: A Nail-Biting Race
The current President of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, is maintaining a slight lead over his left-wing competitor Luisa Gonzalez as the counting of votes from the first round of the presidential election continues. This election is taking place in a country grappling with violence linked to drug trafficking, and it appears to be heading toward a second round in April. With 94% of the votes counted by Monday afternoon, Noboa has received 44.21% of the votes, while Gonzalez trails closely with 43.91%, according to official figures. Indigenous leader Leonidas Iza is positioned third, claiming 5.29% of the votes.
“We won the first round against all the parties of Old Ecuador,” stated Noboa, who is 37 years old, highlighting that Gonzalez’s political mentor is former president Rafael Correa, a socialist who led the country from 2007 to 2017. In response, Gonzalez argued that these results indicate a strong desire for change, celebrating what she described as a “great victory” and noting that they are nearly at a technical tie. With nearly 14 million Ecuadorians eligible to vote, there is a palpable hope that the next administration will be able to mend the crisis-stricken nation that has been engulfed in violence.
Luisa Gonzalez: Aiming for Change and Inclusivity
Luisa Gonzalez, a 47-year-old lawyer and former deputy, is determined to seek redemption after her earlier loss to Noboa in 2023. Her campaign is marked by the controversial support of former president Rafael Correa, who is currently living in exile after being sentenced to eight years for corruption. Gonzalez aims to become Ecuador’s first elected female president, promoting a platform that emphasizes enhanced security and the protection of human rights. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed hope for improved relations between Mexico and Ecuador, citing the need for diplomatic restoration following a recent incident involving Noboa’s administration.
Gonzalez has voiced her commitment to mending ties with various nations, asserting, “Let Luisa win, because I believe it is time to have a woman president.” Daniel Noboa, who comes from a wealthy banana-producing family and is known for his tough stance against drug cartels, is one of the youngest leaders globally. He gained significant attention in 2023, winning the election amid a climate of violence that included the assassination of a candidate. Although he identifies as center-left, Noboa is closely associated with the business elite and garnered support from right-wing factions.
Despite his firm approach to governance, Noboa’s record has faced scrutiny from human rights organizations for the aggressive nature of his security policies. The homicide rate remains alarmingly high, and the state’s public debt is approximately 57% of GDP, with a poverty rate of 28%. As he seeks re-election, Noboa has highlighted the positive performance of his party, ADN, in the legislative elections that coincided with the presidential vote.