Daniel Noboa is positioned to win Ecuador’s presidential election, thanks to his security promises and reported success in reducing violence. His opponents argue for more stringent policies against drug-related crime. Luisa Gonzalez proposes military actions and social reform to address security issues. The election outcome will reveal voter sentiment on these contrasting approaches to security and governance.
Ecuadorean President Daniel Noboa appears poised to secure victory in the upcoming presidential election on Sunday, with voters responding positively to his security-focused promises. Despite criticisms from his 15 competitors suggesting he has been insufficient in combating crime, Noboa cites a 15% reduction in violent deaths and successes in capturing prominent gang leaders due to his military deployment initiatives.
His opponents argue for additional measures against the pervasive drug-related violence affecting Ecuador, yet many of their proposals may necessitate complex legislative or constitutional amendments. Notably, Noboa claims to be already implementing effective strategies for enhancing security at the nation’s borders and ports.
During a closing campaign rally, Noboa emphasized the significant changes in Ecuador, stating, “Today Ecuador has changed and wants to keep changing, it wants to consolidate its triumph. We are not a promise anymore, we are a reality in this country, which has taken a decision.”
The 37-year-old Noboa, who is the scion of a business legacy, aims for netting a decisive victory in this election. Two prominent opinion polls suggest he may achieve this by garnering over 50% of the vote or acquiring at least 40% while maintaining a 10-point lead over his closest rival.
In contrast, other surveys indicate that Noboa might not achieve outright success on this occasion, likely necessitating a runoff against leftist candidate Luisa Gonzalez, who also competed against him in 2023. Both candidates have urged their supporters to observe the election process meticulously to safeguard against electoral fraud.
Gonzalez has outlined her intent to tackle crime through significant military and police operations, while also addressing supposed judicial corruption and initiating social expenditures in the most crime-affected areas. She stated, “We can’t talk about controlling violence without thinking of social justice, of building an Ecuador with peace, not with war.”
Former President Rafael Correa has pointed out that Gonzalez exhibits a lead in polling and noted the plausibility of her winning in the first round. One supporter articulated, “She’s the only one with a coherent plan and the necessary experience to govern the country.”
In recent days, Noboa has introduced several last-minute proposals, aimed at attracting voter attention, such as support for returning migrants, imposing tariffs on Mexican imports, and establishing a trade agreement with Canada. Both candidates are expected to cast their votes in their respective provinces, while voters will also select members for the national assembly.
In summary, President Daniel Noboa is likely to win the Ecuadorean presidential election, bolstered by his claims of progress in security matters, despite opposition critiques. His primary rival, Luisa Gonzalez, proposes an alternative approach focusing on social justice and government accountability. The upcoming election will reflect the electorate’s prevailing priorities between stringent security measures and broader social reforms in response to violence and crime.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
