Ecuador’s President Noboa has closed the nation’s borders for three days leading up to the presidential election, citing threats from armed groups. He has bolstered military presence and previously arrested individuals suspected of being tied to drug-related violence. Ecuador faces increasing gang violence and drug trafficking issues, prompting Noboa’s government to implement emergency measures. The election will see Noboa facing challengers, including Luisa Gonzalez and Leonidas Iza, amid this tumultuous backdrop.
Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa has declared the closure of the country’s borders for three days, commencing Saturday, coinciding with the first round of the presidential election, wherein he is a candidate. Noboa cited threats of destabilization from armed groups, stating, “Faced with attempts at destabilization by armed groups, from Saturday 8 to Monday 10 February, the borders will remain closed.” Additionally, he has announced an increase in military presence along the borders and the immediate militarization of ports.
While campaigning for his reelection, President Noboa reported the apprehension of twelve individuals in military-style attire, armed and equipped with a drone. He referred to these individuals as “narco-terrorists” attempting to undermine the country’s stability. These actions reflect ongoing concerns about Ecuador’s escalating violence associated with drug-related crime.
Daniel Noboa, who rose to power in November 2023, took on the remainder of Guillermo Lasso’s term after Lasso called for early elections amidst corruption allegations. The country’s current predicament intensified following the escape of a drug lord from a Guayaquil prison, prompting Noboa to declare a state of internal armed conflict in January 2024.
Ecuador has seen a surge in violent gang activity in recent years, cultivating significant fear among its 17 million residents. Once viewed as a safer alternative in the region, Ecuador now finds itself entangled in drug trafficking routes, leading to record homicide rates, which peaked at 47 per 100,000 residents in 2023. The Noboa administration claims to have reduced this rate to 38 through various emergency measures.
In the upcoming election, President Noboa will compete again against his left-wing adversary, lawyer Luisa Gonzalez. Their previous contest in October 2023 resulted in Noboa’s victory, where he garnered 52.1% of the vote. Additionally, Indigenous leader Leonidas Iza has entered the race, contributing to an already complex political landscape in Ecuador.
The political climate in Ecuador has been tumultuous, primarily due to issues surrounding drug-related violence and instability. President Daniel Noboa’s administration faces significant challenges from armed gangs involved in drug trafficking, kidnapping, and extortion. The country’s geographical location has transformed it into a key hub for drug shipments, exacerbating violence and crime. Recent events, including the escape of a notorious drug lord and gang conflicts, have necessitated military intervention and the imposition of states of emergency. Noboa’s government is now grappling with the effects of these criminal activities as they approach the presidential election.
In summary, President Daniel Noboa’s decision to close borders reflects the escalating threats posed by armed groups in Ecuador. The government’s efforts to confront narco-terrorism alongside the political pressures of an impending election highlight the complexities of governance in a nation battling widespread violence. The upcoming election will be critical for Noboa as he seeks to maintain stability amidst ongoing challenges from rival candidates and criminal factions.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
