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Ecuadorians are choosing a new president amid increasing violence that may scare away voters

by Michael Nguyen
5 comments
fokus keyword Ecuador's presidential election

Ecuador is in the process of a significant presidential election on Sunday, characterized by an upsurge in violence, which has led to substantial security measures, including the assassination of a candidate earlier in the month. Among the leading candidates are an associate of Rafael Correa, the exiled former president, and a wealthy individual boasting a background in security and a vow to combat crime.

More than 100,000 police and soldiers have been stationed to secure the voting against further violent incidents. While voting is compulsory for most of Ecuador’s population, turnout might be lower as the fear of violence keeps people indoors.

The head of the National Electoral Council, Diana Atamint, initiated the election by calling on the citizens to send a powerful democratic signal of solidarity and hope to overcome the violence threatening their nation.

The killing of candidate Fernando Villavicencio on August 9 has intensified the general fear of crime, such as robberies, kidnappings, homicides, and other common criminal activities.

Villavicencio’s murder is one of several recent political assassinations, leading to increased public anxiety. Some, like pharmacist Leidy Aguirre, are skeptical that the election will lead to any positive change, as even politicians appear to be unsafe.

In preparation for the election, there will be inspections of backpacks, and street vendors are prohibited near voting centers. The election was necessitated after former President Guillermo Lasso dissolved the National Assembly, following allegations of mishandling a contract with a private tanker company.

The late Villavicencio’s name remains on the ballots, although he was not a leading contender. Polls indicate that Luisa González is the frontrunner, followed by Jan Topic, known as the “Ecuadorian Rambo,” and Otto Sonnenholzner. Yaku Pérez, an Indigenous candidate focused on environmental protection, is also running.

A candidate must garner 50% of the votes or at least 40% with a 10-point lead to win outright. If required, a runoff election is set for October 15. The winner will serve less than two years, completing Lasso’s term.

The election also includes choices for the National Assembly and two ballot measures related to environmental protection. Those who neglect their voting responsibility face a $45 fine.

Six men have been arrested in connection with Villavicencio’s killing, and other candidates have upped their security measures.

The newly elected president will face not only the challenge of heightened security concerns but also an economy still reeling from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Central Bank has reduced its growth forecast, and the country has seen decreased oil revenue and tax collections.

Citizens like Sandra Jarrín, who has been unemployed for four years and is concerned about safety, symbolize the complex challenges awaiting Ecuador’s next leader. With violence in the foreground and economic uncertainties, this election holds a significant bearing on the nation’s future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword Ecuador’s presidential election

When is the presidential election taking place in Ecuador, and why is it significant?

The presidential election in Ecuador is taking place on Sunday, and it is significant due to an upsurge in violence, including the assassination of a candidate earlier in the month. The election comes amid heightened security measures and concerns over both crime and economic challenges.

Who are the front-runners in the Ecuadorian presidential election?

The front-runners include Luisa González, an ally of former President Rafael Correa; millionaire Jan Topic, known for promising to be tough on crime; and Otto Sonnenholzner, who played a role in the country’s response to the pandemic.

What measures have been taken to secure the vote?

More than 100,000 police and soldiers have been deployed to protect against further violence. There will also be inspections of backpacks, and street vendors will not be allowed near voting centers.

Why was President Guillermo Lasso’s term cut short, leading to this special election?

President Guillermo Lasso dissolved the National Assembly by decree in May to avoid impeachment over allegations that he failed to intervene to end a faulty contract between the state-owned oil transport company and a private tanker company.

What are some of the key challenges facing the new president of Ecuador?

The new president will need to address increasing violence, public safety concerns, and an economy that is still struggling with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. The Central Bank reduced its growth expectation, and there have been decreases in oil revenue and tax collections.

How has the assassination of Fernando Villavicencio affected the election and public sentiment?

The killing of Fernando Villavicencio on August 9 has intensified fears of crime in the country and heightened concerns about public safety. It has also led to skepticism among some citizens, like pharmacist Leidy Aguirre, who doubts that the election will bring any positive change.

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5 comments

Maria Gonzalez August 21, 2023 - 9:40 am

I can’t believe Lasso dissolved the assembly, the new president has some big problems to solve, economy, violence, pandemic! I hope someone capable wins.

Reply
Jake Smith August 21, 2023 - 11:46 am

This election’s a real mess. Its like violence is becomin’ the new normal, even candidates aren’t safe anymore. What’s happening to Ecuador?

Reply
Eric Walker August 21, 2023 - 1:21 pm

seems like a critical time for Ecuador, i like that one of the ballots is about environmental protection. Good to see some focus on the environment, hope it goes through.

Reply
Tom Johnson August 21, 2023 - 4:28 pm

is anyone else worried about the economy there, they say oil revenue is down and tax collections have fallen too. hope the new prez can turn it around

Reply
Sally Fields August 21, 2023 - 5:45 pm

The assassination of Villavicencio is just shocking! Who would’ve thought politics in Ecuador would get this violent. Praying for the country.

Reply

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