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

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Ecuador is gearing up for a unique presidential election on Sunday, where a new leader will be chosen under the shadow of unprecedented violence, which includes a recent assassination of a candidate. The rising unrest in the once peaceful South American nation is so severe that military and police forces numbering over 100,000 have been deployed to secure the election.

Among the leading contenders are an ally of former President Rafael Correa, who lives in exile, and a millionaire known for his security background and who pledges to take a hard line against crime.

Despite the extensive security measures, some Ecuadorians are so afraid of the prevailing criminal threats that they plan to stay home on election day, even though failing to vote could incur a penalty.

The political climate was further shaken when Fernando Villavicencio was murdered on August 9, making his the third and most high-profile political killing this year. His death has only increased public fears of being victimized by robberies, kidnappings, homicides, and other crimes that have become all too familiar.

Interior Minister Juan Zapata has announced that the only voting restriction will be a backpack inspection, banning street vendors near the voting centers.

The election was triggered after President Guillermo Lasso dissolved the National Assembly in May to fend off impeachment, stemming from accusations of neglecting to end a faulty contract with a private tanker company. He chose not to seek re-election in this special election.

Interestingly, the ballots still include the name of the assassinated Villavicencio, even though he was not considered a top candidate.

The front-runner is Luisa González, an affiliate of Correa’s party, followed by Jan Topic, known as the “Ecuadorian Rambo,” and Otto Sonnenholzner, who played a key role in managing the country’s pandemic response. Also in the race is Yaku Pérez, an Indigenous candidate focusing on environmental protection.

To win in the first round, a candidate must secure 50% of the votes or at least 40% with a 10-point lead. A runoff, if necessary, would be held on October 15, and the victor will complete the remainder of Lasso’s term, less than two years.

In addition to the presidential race, voters will elect a new National Assembly and decide on two ballot measures concerning environmental protection in the Amazon jungle and the Andean Choco region.

With mandatory voting for citizens aged 18 to 64 and a fine of about $45 for non-compliance, the election emphasizes the nation’s strife with violence. Six Colombian men were arrested in relation to Villavicencio’s murder, and candidates have ramped up their security, with one even donning a bulletproof vest at a rally.

The incoming president will face challenges not only in restoring safety but also in reviving an economy still reeling from the pandemic. Projections from the Central Bank have reduced the growth expectation for 2023, and the country’s oil revenue and tax collections have declined.

Unemployment and insecurity are widespread, affecting citizens like Sandra Jarrín, who lost her job four years ago and has yet to find a new one. The pervasive atmosphere of fear and uncertainty encapsulates the mood of a nation at a pivotal moment in its history, seeking leadership that can navigate the multifaceted crises at hand.

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More about fokus keyword Ecuador election

• BBC News – Ecuador Election Coverage
• Reuters – Ecuador’s Special Election
• Al Jazeera – Ecuador Presidential Election
• The Guardian – Ecuador’s Political Climate
• Ecuador’s National Electoral Council