Ecuador’s Assembly is considering a bill that could lead to the establishment of foreign military bases, with further discussions expected after the upcoming elections. The RC party may collaborate with Pachakutik to contest the proposed constitutional amendments. CPAZ and allied groups are mobilizing opposition through campaigns and signature drives, warning against historical injustices associated with foreign military presence.
Ecuador’s Assembly is deliberating a bill concerning the establishment of foreign military bases in the country. The initial debate of the bill concluded on Thursday, and it has since been referred back to the Occasional Commission, which will draft a new report for future consideration. Assemblywoman Gissela Garzón, who leads the Commission, indicated that a potential option is to request an extension, suggesting that the newly elected legislators, beginning their terms on May 14, should take charge of the ongoing discussions.
Although the Citizen Revolution (RC) party will hold the most seats in the upcoming Assembly, it will lack a majority. Nevertheless, a coalition with the Pachakutik movement could serve to obstruct constitutional amendments related to foreign military bases. This follows President Noboa’s proposal from October 2024, which seeks modifications to Article 5 of the Ecuadorian Constitution, subsequently endorsed by the Constitutional Court.
Should Parliament pass the initiative to permit foreign military presence, citizens will have the opportunity to voice their opinions through a referendum following two legislative votes. The Coordinator for Peace, Sovereignty, and Non-Interference (CPAZ) has voiced vehement opposition to this proposal. The group has initiated a digital campaign aimed at protecting Ecuador’s sovereignty and autonomy regarding such decisions.
In conjunction with the global movement A World Beyond War, CPAZ has commenced a signature collection initiative against the proposed bases, which will later be submitted to the National Assembly. They underscored previous experiences, particularly referencing the Manta Base from 1999 to 2009, highlighting its adverse effects such as human rights violations and ineffectiveness in combatting drug trafficking.
In summary, the potential establishment of foreign military bases in Ecuador has ignited significant legislative processes and public discourse. The Assembly is set to revisit the issue with new legislators, while organizations like CPAZ actively campaign against the proposal, emphasizing the historical implications and the need for national sovereignty. The situation remains dynamic as various stakeholders position themselves ahead of possible referendums.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
