Ecuador’s general elections on February 9, 2025, led to a runoff between incumbent President Daniel Noboa and Correista candidate Luisa González on April 13, 2025. Security and unemployment are the primary concerns for voters. Noboa’s strategy emphasizes military action in combating crime, whereas González advocates for social investment and transparency in politics. The election outcome will decide the country’s approach to violence and governance.
On February 9, 2025, Ecuador conducted general elections with an electorate of over 11 million citizens who voted to select leaders for the next four years. The elections encompassed presidential and legislative positions at both the national and parliamentary levels. The outcome rendered no clear winner in the initial round; hence, a runoff election is set for April 13, where incumbent President Daniel Noboa will compete against Correista candidate Luisa González.
The upcoming second round mandates that candidates must present viable strategies to tackle Ecuadorian citizens’ principal concerns, namely unemployment and insecurity, as indicated by a study from market research firm IPSOS. Public safety remains a critical issue that has persisted through the last three administrations, with Ecuador recording the highest homicide rate in Latin America. Security expert Luis Córdova links the surge in violence to insufficient investment in crucial public services like healthcare and education.
President Noboa’s proposals include the continuation of a controversial policy referred to as “internal armed conflict.” This approach emerged following a violent incident in January 2024, where armed assailants targeted a television station leading to a decree that saw military forces deployed on the streets. The military’s role in maintaining public order has raised concerns, especially following the forced disappearance of four minors attributed to military personnel, a case which has drawn national scrutiny and condemnation.
In contrast, Luisa González, representing the center-left Revolución Ciudadana party, advocates for social investment as a means to improve security. Her proposals include restoring the Coordinating Ministry of Security and establishing measures for victim protection and social reintegration. Additionally, she emphasizes strengthening the Armed Forces and National Police’s capabilities, along with promoting community oversight to bolster civic engagement in security matters.
Moreover, González has positioned herself against corruption in politics by advocating for an ethical pact aimed at ensuring transparency in political financing. She emphasizes participatory democracy and citizen involvement in overseeing political activities and institutions. However, she has encountered opposition from critics, including Noboa, who have accused her allies of potential connections to criminal organizations, lacking substantial evidence.
As Ecuador approaches its pivotal second-round election in April 2025, voters face a significant decision regarding the nation’s direction over the coming four years. The contrasting strategies of Noboa and González highlight the critical debate between relying on military action versus fostering social reforms to address escalating violence and socio-economic challenges in the country.
Ecuador’s upcoming runoff election on April 13, 2025, presents a crucial decision for voters amidst rising violence and socio-economic instability. President Daniel Noboa favors a hardline approach, sustaining military involvement to tackle crime, while challenger Luisa González promotes social investment and community engagement. The election will determine not only leadership but the broader strategy on how Ecuador addresses its pressing public safety and governance issues over the next four years.
Original Source: globalvoices.org
